For over four generations, the Catena family has grown vines in the foothills of the Andes Mountains in Mendoza, Argentina. In his pursuit to make wines that stand with the best in the world, Nicolás Catena identified the best lots, and rows, in the Catena family’s estate vineyards. White Stones Chardonnay comes from a select 27 rows within Block 1 of the Adrianna Vineyard. The name refers to the ground beneath the vines which is covered with gravel - oval white stones.

The Adrianna vineyard is located at almost 5,000’ elevation in the Gualtallary sub-district of the Tupungato region. The rocky soil prevents deep root growth and allows for ideal drainage conditions. These are very poor soils where the vines are constantly in conditions of stress. The cool nights allow for very slow ripening, optimal acid retention and low yields.

In general, the 2021 harvest year was cool and with slightly increased rains. We had an average of 15-20% less degree-days than in 2020, and the weather overall was a bit cooler than average. The yields for white varieties were low due to the October frost. Yields for red varieties were normal, with excellent quality and healthy grapes. Because of the cool climate the reds achieved great concentration and ripeness of the skins with moderate sugars and optimal acidity. During the beginning of spring, on October 5th, there was a frost which affected mostly the early ripening varieties, the white varieties. Anti-frost candles were lit throughout the Uco Valley, which helped to minimize the damage. Fortunately, bud break for Malbec and Cabernet had not yet occurred so the most important red varieties were spared. Beginning in December, brief summer rains started and recurred every 15 days approximately. These are the classic continental rains in our region.

This wine pairs well with a variety of more full-flavored fish dishes especially shellfish like shrimp, crab, and lobster. For a special meal try this elegant Chardonnay with Grilled Langoustines with Beurre Blanc.