ZUCCARDI Chardonnay 'Fosil' - San Pablo 2019 Bottle VGN/SUS (los)

Description

IN BRIEF
Fósil Chardonnay, created by Sebastián Zuccardi, is an exceptional white mountain wine sourced from the Estancia Place vineyard in the San Pablo IG, situated at 1,400 metres elevation. The 2019 vintage has garnered high acclaim, receiving 95 points from James Suckling for its freshness and complexity, featuring aromas of dried apple, stone, lemon rind, and honeysuckle, alongside a creamy texture and a salty undertone. Decanter notes its vivid colour and delightful aromas of green apple, citrus, and white flowers, complemented by exhilarating acidity. Vinous highlights its intriguing bouquet of country herbs and cardamom, with a powerful texture and vibrant freshness. This remarkable Chardonnay is perfect for pairing with oysters and grilled fish and can be enjoyed from 2021 to 2031.

ABOUT THIS WINE
The Zuccardi Chardonnay 'Fosil' - San Pablo 2019 is a captivating expression of Chardonnay that reflects the commitment and innovation of Zuccardi, one of Argentina's leading wineries. Sourced from the high-altitude San Pablo region in the Uco Valley, this wine benefits from the area’s unique terroir, characterized by its cool climate, exceptional sunlight, and limestone-rich soils.

The 2019 vintage is notable for its remarkable balance and complexity. In the glass, it typically showcases a pale yellow hue with greenish reflections, inviting you to explore its aromatic profile. On the nose, 'Fosil' reveals a bouquet of citrus fruits, such as lemon and grapefruit, along with hints of green apple and pear. There are also intriguing mineral notes, reminiscent of the fossil-rich soils from which the grapes are harvested, adding a unique character to the wine.

On the palate, the Zuccardi Chardonnay 'Fosil' presents a vibrant acidity that keeps the wine lively and refreshing. The flavours reflect the aromatic profile, with bright fruit notes complemented by subtle hints of floral and mineral nuances. The wine's textural richness is enhanced by a delicate use of oak, resulting in a creamy mouthfeel without overshadowing the freshness of the fruit.

This Chardonnay is versatile when it comes to food pairing, elegantly complementing dishes such as grilled seafood, roasted chicken, or creamy pasta. It also stands out as a delightful aperitif, showcasing its refreshing character and complexity.

In summary, the Zuccardi Chardonnay 'Fosil' - San Pablo 2019 is a remarkable representation of Argentine Chardonnay, offering a delightful combination of fruit purity, minerality, and balanced acidity. This wine is a must-try for enthusiasts looking to explore the elegance of high-altitude Chardonnay and the distinct qualities that the San Pablo region brings to the glass.

JAMES SUCKLING 95 points
This mostly concrete-produced chardonnay shows freshness and complexity with dried apple, stone and lemon rind. Honeysuckle, too. Lovely creaminess. Undertone of salt. No malo. Tangy and intense. One for the cellar. Drink now or hold.

DECANTER 95 points
Tasted by: Alejandro Iglesias
(at Buenos Aires, 19 Oct 2020)
Part of Uco Valley wines: 12 essential ones to try
Drinking Window: 2020 - 2028
The cold climates of the Uco Valley have redefined Mendozan Chardonnay and Fósil is a good example of why. Created by Sebastián Zuccardi with grapes from the San Pablo GI (1,400m) it is mostly aged in concrete (30% in used barrels) and is a vivid colour in the glass, with aromas of green apple, citrus and white flowers. In the mouth it presents exhilaratingly vivacious acidity – perfect for accompanying oysters or grilled fish.

VINOUS 95 points
A Chardonnay from San Pablo, Uco Valley, made with direct pressing and fermented with native yeasts in concrete eggs and 500 liters French barrels with no must. A yellowy-green in the glass, the nose contains aromas of country herbs, resin, apple, pears, peas and a hint of cardamom. Complex and intriguing, the 2019 Fósil Zuccardi has a powerful texture in the mouth and sustained flavor with heightened but contained freshness that comes in with a kick at the end. This white, Sebastian Zuccardi's best, is influenced by the wines of Burgundy. - Joaquín Hidalgo

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ABOUT ZUCCARDI
**Producer Profile: Zuccardi**

Zuccardi is a highly acclaimed winery located in the renowned wine region of Mendoza, Argentina. Founded in 1963 by Alberto Zuccardi, the winery has established itself as a leader in the production of high-quality wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Andes foothills. With a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence, Zuccardi has garnered international recognition and numerous awards for its exceptional portfolio.

Zuccardi is particularly known for its focus on Malbec, Argentina's flagship varietal, as well as other grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Torrontés. The winery's vineyards benefit from Mendoza's diverse microclimates and altitudes, allowing for a wide range of expressions in their wines. Zuccardi prioritises sustainable farming practices, implementing techniques that promote biodiversity and environmental stewardship, ensuring that the vineyard health and quality of the grapes are maintained.

The winemaking philosophy at Zuccardi combines traditional techniques with modern innovation. The winery employs minimal intervention during the production process, which allows the true character of the grapes and terroir to shine through. This meticulous approach results in wines that are not only expressive and well-balanced but also reflect the identity of their origins.

Zuccardi's portfolio features a variety of wines, including their celebrated "Zuccardi Q" line and the iconic "Zuccardi Aluvional" series, which emphasizes the unique terroir of specific vineyard sites. These wines are praised for their depth, complexity, and age-worthiness, appealing to both casual wine drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs.

In addition to producing outstanding wines, Zuccardi is committed to engaging with the community and promoting Argentine wine culture through events, tastings, and vineyard tours. As the winery continues to innovate and push boundaries, Zuccardi remains steadfast in its dedication to crafting wines that not only embody the spirit of Mendoza but also contribute to the global appreciation of Argentine wines.