EXT Nº09 Chardonnay NV

The EXT Nº09 Chardonnay from Spain is a fresh, fruit-forward white wine with a lively and approachable character. In the glass, it shows a pale yellow hue with greenish reflections, indicating youth and brightness. On the nose, it offers a clean and expressive bouquet of tropical fruit, floral notes, and a touch of fennel. These varietal aromas are inviting and set the stage for a refreshing tasting experience. On the palate, the wine is light to medium-bodied, delivering a smooth and ample mouthfeel. Flavors of pineapple, melon, and citrus dominate, supported by delicate floral nuances and a subtle herbal edge. The balance of fruit and acidity creates a marked fruity sensation, giving the wine vibrancy and persistence through the finish. There's a crisp, clean quality that makes each sip feel refreshing and uncluttered. This non-vintage Chardonnay is vinified in a modern, unoaked style, emphasizing purity of fruit over richness or heaviness. With 12% ABV, it's easy to enjoy on its own or with food. EXT Nº09 is a great example of an accessible, everyday white wine—bright, uncomplicated, and ideal for casual sipping. Serve moderately chilled (46°-50° F) to enhance its zesty character and aromatic profile. This wine is meant to be enjoyed young—best consumed between 2025 and 2026.

The EXT Nº09 Chardonnay pairs beautifully with light, fresh dishes that complement its bright acidity and fruity profile. Try it with grilled white fish, lemony pasta, or chicken with herbs for a harmonious match. It also shines alongside vegetable soups, shrimp salads, and mild cheeses like mozzarella or brie. The wine's tropical fruit notes and clean finish make it a refreshing companion to sushi or ceviche, while its floral hints pair nicely with Thai or Vietnamese cuisine featuring basil or lemongrass. Chill and enjoy as a versatile go-to for warm-weather meals or light weekday dinners.

Bodegas López Morenas S.L. is a large and well-established winery located in Fuente del Maestre, in the Badajoz province of Extremadura, Spain. Founded in 1943, the winery has grown from a regional producer into one of Spain's leading exporters of wine and beverages, distributing to over 70 countries worldwide. While their roots lie in traditional Spanish winemaking, López Morenas has modernized its operations and embraced both innovation and global demand. The winery's vast facilities are capable of handling large-scale production, allowing them to offer a wide range of products—from varietal wines and sparkling offerings to sangria, vermouth, and even energy drinks.

Despite their scale, López Morenas remains closely tied to the Extremadura terroir, sourcing grapes from the surrounding area which benefits from a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. These conditions are particularly favorable for varietals like Chardonnay, which thrives in the warm, sun-drenched vineyards of the region.

Known for producing wines that are both approachable and affordable, López Morenas frequently bottles for private label brands and international markets under various brand identities—like Magus, Valdeorite, and EXT—making their wines widely accessible without sacrificing quality. The winery also adheres to strict quality controls and sustainability practices, including the use of lightweight glass and eco-friendly packaging.

With nearly a century of experience and a future-focused outlook, Bodegas López Morenas continues to be a prominent force in Spanish wine. Whether through their own brands or custom label collaborations like EXT Nº09 Chardonnay, they consistently deliver wines that are clean, fruit-forward, and suited for casual enjoyment. Their work bridges tradition and global accessibility, helping to put the lesser-known Extremadura region on the international wine map.