Vineyards and winemaking
The Chardonnay comes from Casarena’s vineyards in Luján de Cuyo, planted at approximately 900 to 960 metres above sea level. Warm, sunny days encourage full flavour development, while cooler nights help the grapes retain the acidity needed for a fresh, well-defined expression.
The bunches are selected by hand before gentle pressing. Fermentation takes place in stainless-steel tanks with selected yeasts at low temperatures, preserving the variety’s aromatic character. Malolactic fermentation is avoided, keeping the wine bright and precise rather than overtly buttery or oak-led.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Clear, pale gold with a subtle green tint at the rim.
Nose
Yellow apple and white peach are joined by pineapple, lemon peel and a lightly stony note. The aromas are ripe but composed, with freshness providing definition.
Palate
Rounded on entry, with generous orchard and tropical fruit balanced by clean, lively acidity. A gentle creaminess gives the mid-palate breadth without adding weight, while flavours of crisp pear, citrus and a faint mineral edge carry into a refreshing finish.
Food pairing
Its combination of rounded fruit and bright acidity works particularly well with roast hake served with brown shrimp and lemon butter, or a smoked haddock and leek fish pie. It is equally comfortable alongside a mild coconut and ginger chicken curry or a courgette and ricotta tart.
Background story
The 505 range takes its name from Casarena’s home on Brandsen 505 in Perdriel, where the estate occupies a historic winery dating from 1937. The wines are intended to offer a direct and accessible introduction to the character of Luján de Cuyo.
For this Chardonnay, Casarena favours a stainless-steel-led approach that places the emphasis on fruit, freshness and texture. It offers a contrasting expression to the richer, heavily oaked style sometimes associated with Mendoza Chardonnay, while retaining the natural generosity of fruit encouraged by the region’s sunny climate.
