GRAN ENEMIGO
CHACAYES 2016
SINGLE VINEYARD • HISTORIC VINTAGE • ARGENTINA
"The cult vintage: where the cold of the mountain sculpted the most elegant Cabernet Franc of the decade."
The Perfection of Cold Climate
The Gran Enemigo Chacayes 2016 is a viticultural rarity. In a region 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 profoundly elegant facet. The alluvial soils with calcium carbonate of Los Chacayes are expressed here with absolute clarity, yielding a wine that has been acclaimed by world critics for its tension and its ability to tell the story of a unique year in time.
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 century-old French oak foudres.
Volume: 750 ml.
Soils: Very stony, with calcareous deposits and granite.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Deep garnet red with purple reflections, great brightness and vivacity.
Nose: Intensely floral and herbal. Notes of violets, thyme, and lavender, followed by cassis, blueberries, and a very pronounced metallic and graphite mineral background.
Palate: Extraordinarily fresh and vertical. It possesses a sinewy structure, with chalk-like tannins. Its passage through the mouth is agile but deep, finishing with a saline and spicy persistence.
3. Wine Architecture
4. Suggested Pairings and Occasions
Cuisine: Due to its high acidity and structure, it is the ideal partner for fatty meats such as rack of lamb, aged ribeye, or roasted suckling pig. It also shines with haute cuisine dishes that include red wine reductions or black truffle.
Suggested Occasions:
- Special Celebration: To commemorate milestones that will last a lifetime, just like this vintage.
- Cult Gift: The ultimate present for a connoisseur seeking specific and memorable vintages.
- Business: A wine that speaks of sophistication, patience, and excellence.
- Premium Barbecue: To enjoy with signature cuts and a technical chat about viticulture.
- Romantic Dinner: The elegance of the 2016 Cabernet Franc adds a special mystique to the evening.
- Family Meal: The luxurious accompaniment for a Sunday banquet with game meats.
frequently asked questions (FAQS)
Is the 2016 better than the 2017?
It's not better, it's different. The 2016 is for those seeking freshness, acidity, and elegance (European style), while the 2017 has a bit more power and fruit ripeness.
How long can the Chacayes 2016 be cellared?
It is one of the vintages with the greatest aging potential in Argentina's modern 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 parcel in Los Chacayes, selected by Alejandro Vigil for its exceptional character.