EL ENEMIGO
CHARDONNAY 2021
BODEGA ALEANNA • GUALTALLARY • ARGENTINA
"A white wine with the soul of a red: the tension of the Andean cold and the mystery of the flor veil in an iconic bottle."
The White Wine That Defies Rules
El Enemigo Chardonnay 2021 is not a conventional white wine. Alejandro Vigil, inspired by Jura wines, uses partial biological aging in French oak foudres, allowing a thin layer of yeast (flor) to protect and transform the wine. The result is a Chardonnay of stratospheric complexity, where ripe fruit blends with notes of toasted bread, dried fruits, and a minerality reminiscent of wet stone. It is a vertical, pungent, and profoundly 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 (a portion under flor veil).
Winemaker: Alejandro Vigil.
Soil: Calcareous, stony, and with high chalk content.
Volume: 750 ml.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Straw yellow with golden and steely reflections.
Nose: Intense aromas of green apple, ripe citrus, and a very pronounced saline note. Subtle nuances of dried fruits (hazelnuts, almonds) and a chalky mineral touch are perceived.
Palate: Vibrant and electric entry. It has a surprising volume balanced by a sharp acidity. The finish is long, dry, and profoundly savory, leaving a persistent mineral sensation.
3. Architecture of El Enemigo Chardonnay
4. Pairing and Recommendations
Cuisine: 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 such as Comté or Gruyère. It is the perfect companion for complex Asian cuisine.
Serving: Serve between **10°C and 12°C**. Do not serve too cold to avoid masking its aromatic complexity. It is recommended to use large white wine glasses (Burgundy type).
frequently asked questions (FAQS)
What is "Velo de Flor" (Flor Veil) in this wine?
It is a layer of natural yeasts that forms on the wine in the barrel. This gives it unique dried fruit flavors and a more complex texture without the need for 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 honey and dried fruit notes.
Why is it said to come from a desert?
Gualtallary is a high-altitude desert. The large thermal amplitude and intense mountain sun concentrate the flavors, while the cold nights preserve the electric acidity that makes it famous.