2018 El Enemigo Malbec, Mendoza

Ale Vigil loves blending Malbec and Cabernet Franc and does it as well as anyone in Argentina. This is a 92/8 cuvée from vines at 1,470 metres in Gualtallary. Focused, fresh and racy, with some tobacco leaf and white pepper spice, blackberry and black cherry flavours and the understated wood that’s a feature of the El Enemigo style.

The 2018 Malbec has some 8% Cabernet Franc in the blend, and it has only 13.5% alcohol while retaining very good acidity. The grapes were sourced from Gualtallary and were co-fermented. It's a serious, subtle and mineral Malbec, with some austerity and shy varietal aromas of violets and wild herbs. The palate is medium-bodied with terrific texture and very clean and focused flavors, and it has the chalky texture from the limestone-rich soils.

Aromas of ripe blackberries and dark cherries with herbal undertones. It’s medium-to full-bodied with chewy tannins. Fleshy with an ink-like feel on the palate. Very approachable with a flavorful finish. Delivers as always. Drink or hold.

The 2018 Malbec El Enemigo has an 8% portion of Cabernet Franc, both from Gualtallary in the Uco Valley, from vineyards planted in calcium rich soils and aged for 15 months in old foudres. The complex nose offers plum and a hint of ash primarily along with subtle, expansive twists of lavender and violet. In the mouth, the wine is structured around the freshness with a skinny flow for the variety and gently grippy tannins that make it agile and flavorful. Delicate and compact, the juicy freshness keeps the fruity flavors present.