Another good wine from the Finca Libertad vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina. There’s an amazing history here. The vineyards were originally planted by Tiburcio Benegas in about 1890 when he brought French vine stock over from Bordeaux. He was Governor of Mendoza at the time and also borrowed 5 million Francs and set up the Bank of  Mendoza.  The vineyards susequently flourished and went on to become El Trapiche which dominated the quality end of Argentinian wine production for most of the 20th century. It was still kept in the Benegas family for most of this period until it became so big it was inevitably split up and sold off. Federico J Benegas, a wonderful man and a friend of mine, simply took his Bank of Mendoza cheque book and bought back the original vineyard with quite possibly the best vines in Argentina, and set about striving for viticultural perfection. Michel Rolland of Bordeaux helps with the blending on all the Benegas reds – and as a result they’re all superb wines.

What’s it like?

Limited production of only 15000 bottles per year, it’s 100% Chardonnay with an unusually floral nose. Plenty of fruit, almost floral again, with good body and length. An enjoyable summer wine as an aperitif or pair with light meals like salads or grilled chicken. The picture is another of Federico’s daughters, although as Clara was with child at the time of posing, she obviously got confused and faced the wrong way! The labels for this range of wine were all commissioned from young emerging Argentine artists.

How much? Where can I buy it?

You can buy Clara Benegas Chardonnay 2005 from a few places but the best deal is with www.goodwineonline.co.uk for £9.20