Introduction
The 2020 El Enemigo Chardonnay from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina, is an expressive and complex Chardonnay crafted by acclaimed winemaker Alejandro Vigil. Known for its Burgundian inspiration combined with Argentina’s distinctive terroir, this Chardonnay balances ripe fruit, vibrant acidity, and subtle oak influence, resulting in a wine of richness, minerality, and elegance.

Terrior
The high-altitude vineyards of Uco Valley benefit from intense sunlight and cool temperatures, which allow for slow grape ripening and concentrated flavors. The region’s alluvial soils, composed of gravel and limestone, lend a distinct minerality and chalky texture to the wine. The combination of high altitude, warm days, and cool nights preserves acidity while enhancing complexity and freshness in the Chardonnay.

Appearance
Pale golden yellow with a slight greenish tint, clear and bright, indicative of freshness and concentration.

Nose
The nose is complex and aromatic, with notes of ripe lemon, green apple, and white peach, layered with hints of almond, vanilla, and floral undertones. A subtle smokiness and mineral quality, reminiscent of chalk and flint, add depth and a nod to its Burgundian inspiration.

Palate
On the palate, this Chardonnay is medium to full-bodied with a creamy texture balanced by bright acidity. Flavors of citrus, pear, and apricot are complemented by a touch of vanilla and spice from oak aging. The wine’s mineral backbone and slight salinity reflect the limestone-rich soils, while partial malolactic fermentation adds a subtle creaminess, enhancing its layered profile.

Finish
The finish is long, elegant, and mineral-driven, with lingering notes of citrus and a hint of toasted almond, leaving a refined and balanced impression.

Overall Impression
The 2020 El Enemigo Chardonnay is a sophisticated and balanced wine that combines Old World elegance with Argentina’s unique terroir. Its depth, acidity, and layered complexity make it a versatile pairing for seafood, creamy dishes, or roasted poultry, as well as a strong candidate for aging.

Published Rankings
Wine Enthusiast Rating: 94
James Suckling Rating: 95
Robert Parker Rating: 93
Vinous Rating: 92
Decanter Rating: 91
Wine Spectator Rating: 90

Published Awards and Recognition
Gold Medal, Argentina Wine Awards 2023

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable, focusing on soil health and vineyard biodiversity. El Enemigo uses organic compost, minimizes chemical treatments, and practices water conservation. The vineyards are hand-harvested, and natural cover cropping is used to promote soil vitality.

Producer Name: El Enemigo
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: Argentina
Region: Uco Valley, Mendoza
Grape Varietals: Chardonnay
Vintage: 2020
Wine Style: Dry white
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in French oak barrels with partial malolactic fermentation, aged on the lees for added complexity and texture
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork