2016 Bodegas Aleanna "Gran Enemigo" Cabernet Franc Gualtallary Argentina
SKU #1525594
99 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The nose of the 2016 Gran Enemigo Gualtallary Single Vineyard transported me back to the classical wines from the Bordeaux of yesteryear, with austerity and with no room for sweetness or creamy texture. This is about chalk and umami, salty and tasty, with the clout and wilderness of Gualtallary; its electric freshness and fine tannins; the expression of Cabernet Franc (with some Merlot) in the poor, stony and limestone-rich soils from the high-altitude vineyards; and the intensity this altitude provides, as there is a strong impact from the light in the grapes. But the one thing that I liked the most about this 2016 was its balance and the way it feels light but has tremendous concentration and power, light on its feet with masses of inner strength. It's nuanced and complex, even if it's terribly young. With time in the glass, it developed notes of orange peel that spoke of freshness, and the palate is sharp and direct, with symmetry and precision. This is approachable now but should live forever in bottle. 2,500 bottles produced. (LG)
(10/2019)
96 points
James Suckling
The blue fruit, crushed chalk and stone are so exciting here, as always. Full-bodied with fresh fruit and fine, vertical tannin texture going through the center palate. Softness and balance throughout. So drinkable now, but will improve with age.
(4/2020)
96 points
Vinous
Gran Enemigo Cabernet Franc 2016 is a unique, intense little pearl. Mixed with 15% Malbec, it is all open expression, delivering violets, sour cherry and blood with wet stone and hints of herb alongside subtle notes of arugula and dry flowers. In the mouth, it’s extremely energetic, the tannins filling out the profile and marshaling the flow with just the right measure of chalk. Lingers comfortably at the back of the mouth without losing its equilibrium. Outstanding. (JH)
(10/2020)
K&L Notes
96 point Tim Atkin MW "“Finesse, finesse, finesse,” says Ale Vigil of this brilliant Gualtallary paso doble of Cabernet Franc and 15% Malbec. Fermented with 50% whole bunches and aged in venerable foudres, it’s a classy, polished, effortlessly nuanced co-fermentation with fine tannins, chalky zip and length, impressive focus and fresh, tangy black fruit. 2021-28"
