Doña Paula "Los Cardos" Sauvignon Blanc 2010

Doña Paula "Los Cardos" Sauvignon Blanc 2010

Origin: Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 12.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: February 2012
Purchase Price: $8.99 (750ml bottle)

Our review: Grassy, citrusy aromas are exhibited by this straw-gold wine; there is also an unexpected hint of flowers present. The citrus flavors on the palate are crisp and quickly develop a significant tartness. The finish adds a touch of slate minerality as it retains much of the wine's tart character.

Our rating: We probably mispaired this wine, serving it with grilled chicken when we probably should have chosen grilled halibut. It is quite tart, almost one note tart, when a little balance is called for. Food seems to help soften it a bit, but not much. We previously rated the Doña Paula Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Above Average, but we didn't enjoy this vintage as much, rating it just Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: Pale yellow color. Very intense aromas of passion fruit, grapefruit, lime, and white peach. In the mouth, this is a fresh, balanced, highly vivacious and persistent wine.

Winery website: Doña Paula Argentina.