Viña Cobos, Felino Chardonnay, Luján de Cuyo & Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina, 2024

Producer Profile

In 1989, Paul Hobbs visited Mendoza for the first time. Driving over the Andes from Chile, he fell in love with the place and the people, but also with its potential to make great wine.

He began experimenting with wild fermented Chardonnay and then with the variety that would become Argentina’s calling card – Malbec; his first 10-barrel vintage of Malbec persuaded the American press of the potential of this grape. Paul established his own winery, Viña Cobos, in 1999 and over 20 years later, continues to make wines that are authentic expressions of the terroir they come from. In his exploration of the different terroirs across Mendoza, Paul looks to the most distinguished regions of Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco to produce wines that uniquely express their origins. The winery’s elegant and balanced wines are a result of meticulous vineyard farming and utmost respect for terroir.

Viticulture

Vineyards in Valle de Uco (Gualtallary, Los Chacayes, Villa Bastías). Planted at high altitude of around 3,300 feet (1,000 meters). Semi-desert climate.

Winemaking

This Chardonnay was whole cluster pressed and fermented using natural yeasts. Malolactic fermentation takes place in barrel again using native yeasts. Only part of the wine is barrel aged while the remainder of the wine was aged in steel tanks.

Tasting Note

Pale straw-yellow with subtle green highlights. The nose opens with fresh aromas of pear, green apple and a lift of citrus zest, underpinned by delicate floral notes. On the palate it is crisp and vibrant, showing a clean profile with a well-defined mid-palate, balanced structure, and a refined texture. The finish is long and persistent, leaving a refreshing impression.

Food Matching

Perfect with seafood, soft cheeses and charcuterie boards, appetizers and grilled vegetables.