Bodega Chacra, 'Chacra' Chardonnay, Patagonia, Argentina, 2023

Overview of the Wine
Bodega Chacra is located in the Rio Negro Valley of northern Patagonia. The property’s location in the arid central Argentine desert is tempered by the confluence of the Neuquen and Limay Rivers, both of which flow from the Andes and converge in the Rio Negro, which in turn flows into the Atlantic. The climate is dry, with a maximum humidity of thirty percent and an average of seven inches of rainfall annually. This aridity, coupled with the natural barrier of the surrounding desert, results in a complete absence of phylloxera and vine diseases.

In Patagonia, a “chacra” is a special piece of land separated by canals that bring snowmelt from the Andes and make the Patagonian desert fertile. At the same time, chacras are vital energy centers that provide us with the ability to connect with the whole universe, with everything living and vibrating. In its nourishment, in the marriage with every meal, wine is the companion of pleasure and sensitivity. Wine is intimate and touches all our senses. Chacra aims to enhance that connection. Respecting and enhancing the community of Chacra is of the utmost importance.

Certified Organic and Biodynamic.

Grape / Blend
100% Chardonnay

Origin
Patagonia, Argentina

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Bodega Chacra owner Piero started a partnership to produce Chardonnay with Meursault legend Jean-Marc Roulot after a chance conversation. Some underperforming old Merlot vines were grafted to Chardonnay and the first vintage was released 2017. More plantings have followed as the region seems very suited to Chardonnays, which are taut, linear and minerally in style.

99 Points - James Suckling
This is very compressed and vertical, with deep mineral notes from the high quality of the single vineyard. The finish goes on for minutes. Compressed and precise with structure and sophistication, yet there’s attractiveness now that makes the wine a must to drink. Best ever. Drink or hold.

97 Points - Tim Atkin
The price might look ambitious for an Argentinian Chardonnay, but when you’ve got Jean Marc Roulot from Meursault on board and the wine is as good as this, it’s justified. This is a stunning white from a single parcel on silt and is slightly broader than the Mainqué bottling. Structured, intense and acid-driven, it has flavours of aniseed, lemon butter, clementine and vanilla spice and a thrilling finish that stays with you for a minute. 2025-35

Product size: 750ml