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
Zekun Shuai

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ABOUT ZUCCARDI
Zuccardi is a renowned winery located in the Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina, celebrated for its innovative approach and commitment to quality in winemaking. Founded by Alberto Zuccardi in 1963, the estate has evolved over the years to become one of Argentina's leading producers, known for its outstanding Malbec and other varietals.

Zuccardi places a strong emphasis on terroir, sourcing grapes from different altitudes and regions within Mendoza to express the unique characteristics of the land. The winery employs sustainable farming practices, ensuring that the vineyards thrive in harmony with the environment. This attention to detail in vineyard management contributes to the quality and complexity of the wines produced.

The winemaking process at Zuccardi is characterised by a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The estate uses small-batch fermentation in stainless steel and concrete tanks to maintain precise temperature control, allowing for a more nuanced expression of the grapes. Barrel aging is carefully managed, with varying influences from French and American oak to enhance the flavour profiles of their wines.

Zuccardi has garnered numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional wines, consistently receiving high praise from critics and enthusiasts alike. The winery actively promotes the exploration of different grape varietals, including Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay, showcasing the diverse winemaking potential of the Uco Valley.

With its focus on quality, innovation, and sustainability, Zuccardi stands as a testament to the artistry of Argentinian winemaking, inviting wine lovers to discover the rich flavours and character inherent in their exceptional wines. Whether enjoyed with food or savoured on their own, Zuccardi wines offer a remarkable experience that showcases the dedication and passion behind each bottle.