Gran Enemigo El Cepillo Cabernet Franc 2021

Aromatic and complex, with notes of violet, cassis, plum and dark cherry accented by mint chocolate and black pepper. Subtle hints of herbs and graphite add depth. The vibrant and precise palate offers crunchy red fruit, silky tannins, and racy acidity with mineral highlights on the finish.

Gran Enemigo El Cepillo reflects the distinctive character of one of the southernmost vineyards in the Uco Valley. The fruit comes from the Pampa El Cepillo, San Carlos vineyard which is located at 1,300 metres. It is one of four Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc wines crafted by winemaker Alejandro Vigil. Each wine features an identical blend, 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Malbec, follows the same vinification process and ageing time, highlighting their shared DNA. The distinction arises from the unique soil types and altitudes of their origins, showcasing the variety's transparency and its ability to reflect the nuances of each terroir. For El Cepillo, the focus is on the singular character of Pampa El Cepillo's colluvial soils with marine limestone layers beneath. While not certified, the vineyard adheres to organic practices, prioritising biodiversity, water conservation, and integrated farming methods. Natural herb and pest control further underscores their commitment to sustainable viticulture, complemented by the winery's sustainability certification from Bodegas of Argentina. High trellises and drip irrigation maximise sun exposure and water efficiency, while manual harvesting ensures careful selection of only the finest grapes.

The grapes were harvested over five separate passes spanning 1.5 months. Fermentation took place in concrete vats at an average temperature of 26°C, following five days of cold maceration. 30% was vinified as whole bunch. The total maceration lasted an average of 23 days before being aged for 16 months in concrete tanks.