El Gran Enemigo El Cepillo Cabernet Franc 2017 🇦🇷

El Gran Enemigo El Cepillo Cabernet Franc 2017: A Bold Argentine Icon

97 points. "A remarkable expression of Argentine Cabernet Franc, blended with 15% Malbec, this 2017 vintage from El Cepillo, Uco Valley, shows both elegance and power. Its vibrant fruit and fresh acidity reflect the high-altitude terroir of Mendoza." – Vinous

Tasting Notes:

• Color: Rich, bright purple.
• Nose: Intense aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and notes of jarilla (a native Argentine shrub), with a hint of ash and earthiness.
• Palate: Fresh and vibrant, showcasing bold fruit flavors like blackcurrant and dark berries, along with savory notes of spice and herbal undertones. The tannins are firm yet silky, offering both grip and elegance. The wine is well-structured, with a refreshing acidity that leads to a long, precise finish.
• Finish: Long, with a clean, mineral-driven conclusion and a touch of saltiness that adds complexity.

The Story Behind the Wine: El Gran Enemigo El Cepillo Cabernet Franc 2017 is produced from the El Cepillo vineyard in San Carlos, Uco Valley, located at an elevation of over 4,200 feet. The challenging conditions of this high-altitude vineyard, including frost and low yields, contribute to the wine’s concentrated flavors and vibrant acidity. This vintage, with 30% whole-bunch fermentation, was aged for 15 months in 100-year-old oak foudres, which enhance its complexity without overpowering the fruit. The partnership between winemaker Alejandro Vigil and Adrianna Catena ensures a meticulous approach to showcasing the unique terroir of the region.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Red Meat: Perfect with grilled steaks or lamb, bringing out the wine’s bold tannins and earthy flavors.
• Game: Ideal with venison or wild boar, enhancing the wine's dark fruit and spice notes.
• Cheese: Pairs beautifully with aged cheeses like Pecorino or Manchego, balancing the wine’s acidity.

Winemaking & Terroir: Hand-harvested from colluvial soils rich in marine limestone, the grapes benefit from a cool climate that enhances the wine’s natural acidity. The fermentation process includes indigenous yeasts, and the wine spends 15 months aging in oak foudres to achieve its perfect balance.

Wine Specifications:

• Variety: 85% Cabernet Franc, 15% Malbec
• Alcohol: 14%
• Serving Temperature: 16-18°C
• Bottle Size: 750 ml
• Aging Potential: Drink now through 2028.
• Appellation: San Carlos, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina

Buy Now: Experience the excellence of El Gran Enemigo El Cepillo Cabernet Franc 2017 at Caná Wine Shop. Free shipping on orders over $150.