Catena, San Carlos Cabernet Franc

Country: Argentina Region: San Rafael

Varietal: Cabernet Franc Vintage: 2019

Colour: Red Style: Dry

Producer: Catena

Description:

According to Jancis Robinson, Nicolás Catena Zapata is the man credited with putting Argentine Malbec on the global wine map. Founded in 1902, Argentina’s Bodega Catena Zapata is known for its pioneering role in resurrecting Malbec and in discovering extreme high altitude terroirs in the Andean foothills of Mendoza.

This is a grape that you will seldom find in any quantity or quality outside of the Loire Valley in France. Its a grape that thrives in cooler climates which is why Catena who are masters of high altitude planting can grow it so successfully in such a warm climate.

Made from 100% Cabernet Franc grown in the Catena family's high-altitude vineyard holdings in the tiny village of San Carlos, about 100km south of Mendoza and 20km south-east of Vista Flores. The vineyards face north-west which gives warmth and some afternoon sun, but protects them from the extremes of heat. The altitude and exposition are perfect for Cabernet France and give the grapes a longer ripening period, allowing for the development of thicker skins, darker colouring and more complex flavours in the resulting wine.

Tasting Note:
Concentrated ripe red berries, a touch of eucalyptus and black pepper, robust tannins and smooth lengthy finish.

Food Matches: Red Meat / Lamb / Chicken / Venison