EL ENEMIGO
CABERNET FRANC 2023
BODEGA ALEANNA • GUALTALLARY • ARGENTINA
"Elegance made tension: the varietal that redefined the potential of the calcareous soils of the Andes."
The 100-Point Cabernet Franc
El Enemigo Cabernet Franc 2023 is the heart of **Alejandro Vigil's** project. It comes from vineyards located over 1,400 meters high in Gualtallary, an area with soils poor in organic matter but extremely rich in calcium carbonate. This unique geology gives the wine a granular tannin texture and a mineral freshness reminiscent of graphite. Aged in century-old French oak foudres, the wine maintains its primary herbal and spicy character, achieving a complexity that only the great terroirs of the world can offer.
1. Identity Profile
Specific Origin: Gualtallary, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina.
Winery: Aleanna (El Enemigo).
Composition: Mostly Cabernet Franc with a touch of Malbec.
Aging: 15 months in 100-year-old French oak foudres.
Soils: Calcareous and stony at high altitude.
Volume: 750 ml.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Intense ruby red with very subtle violet hues.
Nose: Great complexity with notes of small red fruits, black pepper, clove, and the characteristic herbal aroma of the varietal reminiscent of thyme and jarilla. Mineral notes of chalk and gunpowder appear.
Palate: Vertical and vibrant. It has a marked acidity that gives it great energy. The tannins are fine and firm, with an elegant mid-palate and a salty, persistent finish.
3. Architecture of El Enemigo Cabernet Franc
4. Pairing and Recommendations
Gastronomy: This is an extremely versatile wine. It pairs sublimely with lamb cuts, game meats, grilled pork, and dishes seasoned with fresh herbs. It also goes very well with mushroom risottos and aged goat cheeses.
Serving: It is recommended to serve between **16°C and 18°C**. Decanting for about 30 minutes allows it to optimally open up its spiced and herbal layers.
frequently asked questions (FAQS)
Is it better than the Malbec from the same winery?
It's not better, but different. The Cabernet Franc is more "intellectual" and taut, with more herbal notes and freshness, while the Malbec is rounder and fruitier. Both are pillars of the winery.
What does it mean that it comes from Gualtallary?
Gualtallary is Mendoza's "Grand Cru." Its calcareous soils are what give this wine its unique chalky texture and extraordinary aging potential.
Can it be cellared?
Absolutely. The Cabernet Franc 2023 has a structure and acidity that will allow it to evolve and gain complexity over the next 10 to 12 years.
