2017 El Enemigo ‘Gran Enemigo’ Chacayes Mendoza Cabernet Franc

WSI96 WA97 The more austere 2017 Gran Enemigo Chacayes Single Vineyard was produced with Cabernet Franc and 15% Malbec from a low-yielding and early harvest of plants at 1,100 meters in altitude. The fermentations for the Enemigo wines are always with indigenous yeasts and with some whole clusters, and in 2017, it was 100% (for all the single-vineyard wines) and aged in old oak foudres to avoid excessive aromas of oak or toast. The palate reveals some austerity too, but it has pungent flavors and piercing acidity and a very tasty, almost salty finish. This is also truly impressive, outstanding for a year like 2017 and among the best Chacayes ever. 6,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in July 2018.
JS95 Beautiful aromas of blackberries, black walnuts and violets with hints of fresh tarragon. It’s medium-bodied with creamy, finely rounded tannins that lead you down to the end of the palate. Succulent and delicious at the finish. Drink or hold.