2021 El Enemigo Cabernet Franc [WA93][JS93][V93][WE90]

Producer: El Enemigo  
Region: Mendoza, Argentina 
Varietal: Cabernet Franc  
Year: 2021 

Wine Advocate, 93 Points 

"Against all odds, the 2020 Cabernet Franc, from a warm and dry year, feels fresher and more harmonious than the two other vintages I tasted next to it, the cooler 2019 and 2021. It contains some 10% Malbec that fermented together with the Cabernet Franc, which feels very integrated and softened the tannins that feel velvety but without losing grip. It spent 15 months in ancient oak foudres, and the oak feels very integrated." 

James Suckling, 93 Points 

"Fresh thyme and peppermint to the deep, spiced cherries, olives and roasted red chili. A hint of black beans, too. I like the texture and tension here with firm tannins on the broad, medium- to full-bodied palate. Firm and well-constructed tannins with a pretty long finish. Drink or hold." 

Vinous, 93 Points 

"The 2020 Cabernet Franc incorporates a 10% touch of Malbec and originates from Gualtallary in the Uco Valley. It underwent a 15-month aging process in used foudres. It's a dark and intense purple color. The nose reveals notes of ashes and herbs, interwoven with a subtle hint of jalapeño, set against a backdrop of black fruit and cedar. Dry and delicately lean, the palate is tightly structured and juicy, thanks to its fine-grained tannins. The vibrant palate concludes with a lingering thyme finish." 

Wine Enthusiast, 90 Points 

"The nose has floral aromas and a trace of oak spices. This vintage shows a ripe palate, with leafy flavors and ripe fruit in the form of plums and figs. It's soft and balanced and finishes with pleasant spicy notes." 

Winemaker Notes: 

"This Cabernet Franc is ruby red in color with soft violet tones. The nose has intense aromas and concentrated notes of cassis, ripe currants, and sweet spices including black pepper and cloves. His tenure provides integrated oak notes of cedar and vanilla. Fresh impact and excellent structure on the palate, reminiscent of ripe red fruits with hints of eucalyptus and tagged black pepper. This wine has an excellent balance and elegance with a well-structured, persistent finish." 

Alcohol: 13.5% 

*Price and availability in store may vary. Vintage date may differ from pictured.