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.

Pale lemon in colour. Crushed white florals, yellow apple and pear on the nose. Incredibly youthful. Nicely concentrated on the palate, viscous with a slight glycerol sweetness. Lingering finish. This is far too young, It'll be much better in a year or more. (SCJ)

17+/20 points.

The 2020 Chardonnay CWG Sandford sees no SO2 before fermentation like the other cuvées, some oxidation at the press, around 40% first press straight into mainly newer barrels, the rest settled overnight before transfer into barrel. Most of the malos go through on this cuvée. This has a really classy bouquet with precise, quite minerally yellow fruit, just a very slight reduction that works to its benefit. The palate is well balanced with a smooth, harmonious texture and perfectly pitched acidity with well integrated oak towards the finish. This is utterly delicious.

This is a phenolic, tangy and structured chardonnay with notes of toast, flint, dried lemons, spiced pears and white peaches. Some salted butter and praline, too. Medium to full body, with vibrant acidity. Lengthy and spicy. Drink now or hold.

Clear pale colour. This is beautifully balanced on the nose, with a wealth of fruit on the palate without being exotic. The 2019 Vaulorent offers more depth than usual, just a little spice at the back but still with salinity and tension. Very complete with excellent length. This wine can carry the vintage.