Bodega Septima is a Mendoza, Argentina based winery. This region of Argentina is the one most familiar to US consumers at this time. The winery has a history that dates back 10 years. In 1999 they were founded by the Codorníu Group who have winery proprties in several distinct, world-wide locations. Originally starting with 470 acres, they now have well over 800 acres in Mendoza. The stated goal of Bodega Septima is to produce wines that take into account both Argentine tradition and modern global techniques. Today I'll look at their current release of Chardonnay.
The 2008 Bodega Septima Chardonnay is produced from grapes in their Luján de Cuyo vineyard; 3,900 feet above sea level. This offering is 100% Chardonnay. This wine was aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels. Alcohol for this selection is a modest 13.3%. The suggested retail price for this South American Chardonnay is $12.
This 2008 wine has a fresh, light yellow hue. Green apple and anjou pear emerges in the nose along with a touch of vanilla bean. Pear and apples flavors continue through the palate, joined by pineapple and hints of additional tropical flavors. Most interesting is a light later of citrus (lemon custard comes to mind) that starts mid-palate and continues through the finish. hints of creaminess also echo through the finish along with subtle nutmeg spice. This Chardonnay has very good acidity. Chicken Piccata would be an excellent match for this offering, which is also quite tasty on its own.
Fresh fruit flavors burst out of this wine, which is what impresses me most. It complements summer nicely. If you happen to drink it in cool weather it's going to make you wish for warmer days. This wine is most commonly available for right around $10; another example of the many values coming from Argentina,