El Enemigo, Cabernet Franc 2021 Mendoza, Argentina

El Enemigo is a collaboration between acclaimed winemaker Alejandro Vigil and historian Adrianna Catena, paying tribute to those internal battles that make us who we are while reaching back to capture the era when European immigrants first settled in Argentina. Vigil has been working with Cabernet Franc from Gualtallary since 2001, becoming one of the masters of the variety in South America. The grapes are sourced from the sandy stone and limestone soils of Gualtallary in the Uco Valley at 1,400 meters elevation, delivering a delicious combination of fruity flavors and herbal notes from this cool 2021 vintage.

Tasting Notes

Ruby red in color with soft violet tones, the nose reveals intense aromas of cassis, ripe currants, and sweet spices including black pepper and cloves. The palate offers fresh impact and excellent structure, reminiscent of ripe red fruits with hints of eucalyptus and black pepper, showing excellent balance and elegance with a well-structured, persistent finish. Displaying a mixture of blue plums and red cherries with fresh mineral quality, it's juicy, fresh and expressive on the palate with medium body and a long, extensive finish. The wine shows characteristic stemmy notes behind deep blackberry and plum jam, with lovely depth of fruit and a herbal lift with tangy finish.

Pairs With

Grilled beef and lamb, roasted game meats, aged hard cheeses, herb-crusted pork tenderloin

Ratings

91 pts Wine Enthusiast, 92 pts Wine Advocate