2018 Aluvión Vineyards - Cab Frac - Reserva

PRODUCTION   

Super premium limited release.

The 2017-2018 season was an extraordinary year in terms of quality, plant vigor and yields. The growing conditions were nearly ideal, characterized by dry weather, and without any significant early frost or zonda winds. The season also brought very high thermal amplitudes (temperature ranges between day and night), which delivered wonderful intensity to the grapes.

By the end of the fermentation process, we could tell the grapes had an excellent balance with a well-structured body and persistent finish.  On the nose it had intense aromas and concentrated notes of cassis and sweet spices including black pepper and cloves.

Although we have been growing and blending with our Cabernet Franc grapes since the start, this was the first year we made a Cabernet Franc wine.  We are so glad we did.

TASTING NOTES

The Cabernet Franc wine is ruby red in color, with pronounced perfumes and notes of red pepper, black currants, and graphite. It is well balanced between red fruits, herbs, and pepper. This is an elegant wine with round tannins, good acidity, and a persistent memorable finish.  If you haven't enjoyed a bold cabernet franc before, this is a great introduction to the varietal.

About Cabernet Franc: Originally, this grape comes from the Libournais region of Bordeaux.  It was crossed with Sauvignon Blanc to create the Cabernet Sauvignon variety.  In the Mendoza terroir, it usually expresses notes of capsicum, raspberries, cassis, tobacco, together with floral notes.

We recommend decanting for up to 30 minutes and serving at a temperature of 16-18 degrees Celsius (61 - 64.5 degrees Fahrenheit).  

THE DETAILS

Region: Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina

Varietals: 90% Cabernet Franc SP, 10% Malbec SP

Style: Intense and elegant

Harvest date: 27 March 2018

Fermentation:  17 days

Oak type: Boutes oak barrels, first and second-use barrels

Alcohol: 14.5%

Quantity: Limited release - 300 bottles (225 litres)