In Argentina, Chardonnay is different than in California. They are often light, crisp, and subtle, a contrast to the full-bodied oaked and buttered expectation common in the California expression of this varietal. Funckenhausen expresses the Mendoza Chardonnay perfectly with its vines set in sandy-loam soils, clearly expressing the purity and freshness of its origin. Ale Heinlein is an artist in the vineyard who's perfectionism is exemplified by the holes he digs in front of various vines to analyze their root development and behavior in the various soil striations of his massive vineyard.

Argentina is home to many German immigrants, but few have honored and embraced the legacy of their roots as deeply as the Funcke family, who arrived in the country in the late 19th century. Inspired by that heritage, Kurt Heinlein founded Funckenhausen Vineyards on a 330-hectare estate of untouched land that captivated him from the very beginning. Located in the 25 de Mayo district, in southern Mendoza, it is now one of the highest and most distinctive estates in the region. As pioneer producers in this terroir, Kurt's life and dreams were the starting point for creating La Espera-a wine line that celebrates time, the aspirations that patiently ripen, and the reward of seeing them come true.