GRAN ENEMIGO
CHACAYES 2016
SINGLE VINEYARD
HISTORIC VINTAGE • ARGENTINA
"The cult vintage: where the mountain cold sculpted the most elegant Cabernet Franc of the decade."
Cold Climate Perfection
The Gran Enemigo Chacayes 2016 is a winemaking rarity. In a region that is usually warm, the 2016 vintage brought an Atlantic climate to the heart of the Andes. This wine from the El Enemigo winery displays a linear, austere, and deeply elegant facet. The alluvial soils with calcium carbonate of Los Chacayes are expressed here with absolute clarity, delivering a wine that has been acclaimed by global critics for its tension and its ability to tell the story of a year that was one of a kind. Purchase it with direct, guaranteed shipping at La Cava Shop.
1. Identity Profile
Winery: El Enemigo (Alejandro Vigil & Adrianna Catena).
Origin: Los Chacayes, Tunuyán, Mendoza (1,100 masl).
Vintage: 2016 (Collector's vintage / High Altitude).
Aging: 15 months in centennial French oak foudres.
SKU: ENEMIGO-CHACAYES-2016
Volume: 750 ml.
Soils: Very stony, with calcareous deposits and granite.
2. Sommelier Notes
Appearance: Deep garnet red with purple reflections, highly bright and vibrant.
Nose: Intensely floral and herbal. Notes of violets, thyme, and lavender, followed by cassis, blueberries, and a very distinct metallic and graphite mineral background.
Palate: Extraordinarily fresh and vertical. It possesses a wiry structure with tannins that feel like chalk. Its progression across the palate is agile yet profound, ending with a saline and spicy persistence.
3. Wine Architecture
4. Pairing and Suggested Moments
Gastronomy: Due to its high acidity and structure, it is the ideal partner for fatty meats such as rack of lamb, dry-aged ribeye, or roast suckling pig. It also shines with high-cuisine dishes that include red wine reductions or black truffle.
Suggested Moments:
- Special Celebration: To commemorate milestones that will endure through time, much like this vintage.
- Cult Gift: The definitive present for a connoisseur seeking specific, memorable vintages.
- Business: A wine that speaks of sophistication, patience, and excellence.
- Premium Steak Night: To enjoy with signature cuts and a technical conversation about viticulture.
- Romantic Dinner: The elegance of the 2016 Cabernet Franc adds a special mysticism to the evening.
- Family Meal: The luxury companion for a Sunday banquet with game meats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the 2016 better than the 2017?
It isn't better; it is different. 2016 is for those looking for freshness, acidity, and elegance (European style), whereas 2017 has a bit more power and fruit ripeness.
Why is the 2016 vintage so special in Chacayes?
2016 was a cold and wet year in Mendoza, which is rare. This resulted in wines with vibrant acidity, moderate alcohol, and an aromatic depth reminiscent of the great Bordeaux wines.
How long can the Chacayes 2016 be kept?
It is one of the vintages with the greatest aging potential in modern Argentine history. It can evolve perfectly for the next 20 to 30 years.
What is a 'Single Vineyard'?
It means that 100% of the grapes come from a single, specific plot in Los Chacayes, selected by Alejandro Vigil for its exceptional character.