Vintage Character The 2020 harvest in Argentina finished unusually early, with most of the country's grapes in by the beginning of May. It was a warm season, and the early picking kept the wines fresh. In 2020, the Palma Carola White Blend from Pulenta Estate reflects that season. Palma Carola White Blend combines Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay from Mendoza. Mendoza sits at the foot of the Andes, and its high-altitude vineyards enjoy sunny days and cool nights. Luján de Cuyo, where Pulenta has its estate, is long associated with perfumed, elegant Malbec.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairing Grapefruit, white peach and pear lead, with white flowers and a hint of herbs. It is dry and medium-to-full-bodied, with high acidity. The palate is fresh and rounded, with bright acidity and a clean finish. It is best enjoyed in its youth. Grilled prawns, steamed fish and roast chicken suit it. Serve at about 8 to 10 degrees Celsius, and avoid over-chilling so the aromas can open. A blend lets the winemaker balance structure, fruit and tannin from several varieties. It also suits a glass at the start of a meal, since the acidity wakes up the palate. A white with this profile shows best slightly cool rather than ice-cold, when its texture and mineral detail come through.
Winery Background Pulenta Estate was founded in 2002 by the brothers Eduardo and Hugo Pulenta, from a family with generations in Argentine winegrowing. The estate is in Alto Agrelo in Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, at about 980 metres above sea level on the La Zulema vineyard. The aim was to make limited series of high-quality wines that show the varieties and terroirs of Mendoza. The brothers say they built the winery on the legacy of their grandfather and the experience of their father.