Finca Martha Chardonnay Mendoza 2018

Joelle Thomson
Wine Writer

“We all need our comfort slippers some days and this wine is one of mine; a modern Chardonnay which is dry, full bodied and crisp as well as being refreshing. Argentina may be best known for big bold reds made from the Malbec grape but it’s also home to high quality Chardonnay, such as this incredibly tasty, fresh and zesty, full bodied, dry white. Powerful citrusy flavours of ripe lemon, grapefruit and notes of white peach are all present and counted in this beautifully balanced white. Sealed with a screwcap.” – 4 Stars, Joelle Thomson, Wine Writer
“A fruity, fresh New World Chardonnay, quite NZ like. Aromas of ripe peaches, green melon with hazelnuts abound, a fruity entry with strong peach flavours retaining a refreshing vein due to good acid levels. The finish is warm, giving length and drinkability.” – Lynnette Hudson, Experienced Winemaker and Advisor

“The Uco Valley in Argentina is well known for its high altitudes, harsh winters and warm summers. Most of the vines grown here are planted on alluvial soils filled with sand and stone, great for grapes like Chardonnay and Malbec to thrive. The drip irrigation used in these vineyards cause stress in the vines, making them search deeper and harder for more nutrients, resulting in concentrated grapes filled with flavour. White and yellow peaches are most obvious, alongside grapefruit rind and aromatic jasmine. Try with roasted pumpkin soup, chicken or a pineapple pie for dessert. Drink now.” – Wine Central Tasting Panel

From a small vineyard 200kms south of the city of Mendoza is Finca Martha. Here, with only 33 hectares of vineyards, 14 of which are currently undergoing organic certification and irrigated by the Atuel river, wines are produced on the smaller scale and pay homage to the Marthas of the Barale family.
The 2017 Chardonnay is bright and crisp, perfumed with an abundant of floral, citrus and crisp orchard fruits. On the palate is fresh citrus and crunchy apple notes, alongside more nuanced herbal notes, like thyme and white grapefruit. Crunchy acidity cleanses the palate while a mild creaminess keeps the composure of the wine.

90 Points Decanter 2019
Silver Bruxelles
90 Points Vino Sub $30