2017 Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard El Cepillo Cabernet Franc Uco Valley

96+P: The nose of the 2017 Gran Enemigo El Cepillo Single Vineyard was truly explosive: tons of curry, aromatic herbs and something vermouth-like, exuberant and very forward, expressive and open. It's Cabernet Franc with 15% Malbec fermented in barrel with indigenous yeasts and with 100% full clusters this year. This is also very distinct, and the exotic and aromatic notes are a constant across vintages. The palate is medium to full-bodied, and this year, the Gran Enemigo wines are around 14% alcohol and keep very good freshness (a pH of 3.05) and remarkable acidity. It's vibrant and finishes dry and with a salty twist, more vertical than I expected for the vintage.

Aromas of raspberries, black cherries and currants, as well as herbs and incense. It’s medium-to full-bodied with chewy tannins, yet the texture turns firm and fine on the palate with persistent structure and acidity. Flavorful finish with length. Try after 2023.