RKS 2023 Wine: More To Mendoza Than Malbec: A Kimmy K Wine?

Posted byRobert K Stephen (CSW)Posted inWineTags:, , ,

Poor Argentina pigeonholed with being a Malbec producer. As far as reds go there is also Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon that is top quality. And yes there is Chardonnay in a world mad for Chardonnay. To extend our learning curve we try a 2021 Catena Chardonnay from Mendoza.

A blend of Chardonnay from 4 vineyards all above 3,000 feet. Whole cluster pressed. Fermented in barrels and stainless steel. Eight months ageing in French oak with first, second and third use barrels used.

Aroma: Apple, pear, cantaloupe, peach, tangerine and wet stone.

Palate: Wet slate, apricot, guava, soft mango with a bit of ginger all perhaps a bit reticent on the palate. Short finish.

Cellarbility: Drink in 2023.

Personality: Like Kimmy Kardashian I have the Catena name and reputation behind me but in terms of complexity and depth I might be a bit lacking.

Food Match: Grilled chicken or rabbit in foil with yogurt and tarragon.

Price: $22.95 (Ontario).

RKS 2023 Wine Rating: 85/100. Jamessuckling.com 92.

(Catena High Mountain Vines 2021 Chardonnay, Mendoza, Argentina, Bodega y Viñedos Catena, Mendoza Argentina, 750 mL, 13.5%)

Published by Robert K Stephen (CSW)

Robert K Stephen writes about food ,drink, travel, film, and lifestyle issues. He also has published serialized novels "Life at Megacorp", "Virus # 26, "Reggie the Egyptian Rescue Dog" and "The Penniless Pensioner" Robert was the first associate member of the Wine Writers’ Circle of Canada. He also holds a Mindfulness Certification from the University of Leiden and the University of Toronto. Be it Spanish cured meat, dried fruit, BBQ, or recycled bamboo place mats, Robert endeavours to escape the mundane, which is why he has established this publication. His motto is, "Have Story, Will Write."

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