Today's Wine Review
2023 Kaiken Chardonnay "Ultra"
Winery: Kaiken
Vintage: 2023
Wine Name/Vineyard: "Ultra"
Wine Category: Chardonnay
Grape blend: 100% Chardonnay
Bottle size: 750 ml
Region: Mendoza
State or country: Argentina
Price: $26
Cases produced: unknown
KWG Score: 90.5 (based on 4 reviews)
Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (90)
Review date: December 29, 2025
Wine Review: This clear and light gold colored Chardonnay from Kaiken in Argentina opens with a lemon verbena and vanilla pancakes bouquet with hints of pine needles and triple sec. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with Integrated medium acidity. The mouthfeel is round, slightly viscous, and brisk. The flavor profile is a vanilla and oak influenced grilled pineapple and peach blend with notes of banana cream pie. I also detected hints of pecan and a touch of mango in the aftertaste. The finish is dry, and its flavors and acidity linger nicely. This wine was popular with everyone that tried it and it did not last long. I would pair this Chardonnay with a vanilla bean panna cotta. Enjoy – Ken
Winemaker Notes: Intense golden yellow with bright old-gold highlights, showcasing remarkable clarity and density.
Nose: Complex and elegant, with a multifaceted aromatic profile. Prominent ripe white stone fruits such as candied pear and quince intertwine with subtle citrus hints of lime and pink grapefruit, and a saline minerality. Barrel aging contributes delicate aromas of toasted bread, hazelnut, sweet spices (vanilla and nutmeg), and a subtle smoky touch. The complexity evolves with aeration, revealing notes of honey and dried white flowers.
Palate: Broad and full-bodied, with a silky entry and creamy texture. The vibrant, well-integrated acidity perfectly balances the rich texture, achieving an exquisite harmony. Flavors of ripe white fruits become more intense with notes of brioche and a persistent minerality. The long, lingering finish concludes with a pleasant oily sensation and a subtle complexity, enticing you to take another sip.
Pairing: Ideal to pair with haute cuisine dishes. Tips: grilled white fish with butter and herb sauce; roasted chicken with white truffle sauce; and aged hard cheeses (Comté, Parmigiano Reggiano).
Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Kaiken 2023 Ultra Chardonnay.
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