EL ENEMIGO
CHARDONNAY 2021
BODEGA ALEANNA • GUALTALLARY • ARGENTINA
"A white with the soul of a red: the tension of the Andean cold and the mystery of the veil of flor in an iconic bottle."
The White That Challenges the Rules
The El Enemigo Chardonnay 2021 is no conventional white wine. Alejandro Vigil, inspired by the wines of Jura, utilizes partial biological aging in French oak foudres, allowing a thin layer of yeast (veil) to protect and transform the wine. The result is a Chardonnay of stratospheric complexity, where ripe fruit merges with notes of toasted bread, nuts, and a minerality reminiscent of wet stone. It is a vertical, piercing, and deeply elegant wine that has redefined what Argentine Chardonnay can achieve.
1. Identity Profile
Specific Origin: Gualtallary, Uco Valley, Mendoza (1,470 masl).
Winery: Aleanna (El Enemigo).
Aging: 9 months in French oak foudres (partially under a veil of flor).
Winemaker: Alejandro Vigil.
Soil: Calcareous, stony, with high chalk content.
Volume: 750 ml.
2. Sommelier Notes
Appearance: Straw yellow with golden and steely highlights.
Nose: Intense aromas of green apple, ripe citrus, and a very distinct saline note. Subtle nuances of nuts (hazelnuts, almonds) and a chalky mineral touch can be perceived.
Palate: Vibrant and electric entry. It possesses surprising volume balanced by a sharp acidity. The finish is long, dry, and deeply savory, leaving a persistent mineral sensation.
3. Architecture of El Enemigo Chardonnay
4. Pairing and Recommendations
Gastronomy: Its structure allows it to pair with dishes that would normally go with light reds. Excellent with game birds, fatty fish (salmon, tuna), mushroom risottos, and hard cheeses like Comté or Gruyère. It is the perfect companion for complex Asian cuisine.
Service: Serve between **10°C and 12°C**. Do not serve too cold, so as not to mute its aromatic complexity. Using wide white wine glasses (Burgundy style) is recommended.
frequently asked questions (FAQS)
What is the "Veil of Flor" in this wine?
It is a layer of natural yeast that forms on top of the wine in the barrel. This imparts unique nutty flavors and a more complex texture without the need to add new wood.
Can this Chardonnay be aged?
Absolutely. Thanks to its high acidity and structure, the 2021 Chardonnay has an aging potential of 5 to 10 years, during which it will gain more intense honeyed and nutty notes.
Why is it said to come from a desert?
Gualtallary is a high-altitude desert. The wide temperature range and intense mountain sun concentrate the flavors, while the cold nights preserve the electric acidity that makes it famous.