GRAN ENEMIGO
EL CEPILLO 2018
SINGLE VINEYARD
SAN CARLOS • UCO VALLEY
"Absolute precision: where the balance of a perfect vintage reveals the mineral essence of the Andean desert."
The Balance of Nature
The Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard El Cepillo 2018 is the result of a dream season in the Uco Valley. In this specific parcel, the Cabernet Franc achieves an expression of great purity, marked by the freshness of the far south of San Carlos. The El Enemigo winery, under the masterful guidance of Alejandro Vigil, has achieved a wine that combines firm structure with elegant fluidity. It is a wine of great tension, where aromas of wild herbs and wet stone intertwine with vibrant dark fruit, all wrapped in the sophistication of aging in century-old foudres. Get this collectible oenological jewel with guaranteed shipping at LaCava.shop.
1. Identity Profile
Winery: El Enemigo (Vigil & Catena).
Origin: El Cepillo, Uco Valley, Mendoza (1,200 masl).
Vintage: 2018 (Vintage of perfect balance).
Aging: 15 months in multi-use French oak foudres.
Net Content: 750 ml bottle.
Composition: Cabernet Franc co-fermented with Malbec.
2. Sommelier Notes
Appearance: Intense ruby red color with deep, bright purple reflections.
Nose: Great complexity and freshness. Notes of dark fruits such as cassis and blackberries are perceived, combined with touches of black pepper, thyme, and a strong mineral identity reminiscent of graphite and limestone.
Palate: Vertical and energetic entry. It is a medium to full-bodied wine with a piercing acidity that gives it great liveliness. Its tannins are firm and possess that highly sought-after chalky, granular texture, finishing with a saline and elegant persistence.
3. Wine Architecture
4. Pairing and Suggested Moments
Gastronomy: A wine of this precision is ideal to accompany structured yet elegant dishes. It pairs perfectly with game meat cuts, grilled lamb with aromatic herbs, or pork sirloin with a red fruit reduction. It also harmonizes wonderfully with aged goat cheeses and dishes containing wild mushrooms.
Suggested Moments:
- Special Celebration: To celebrate achievements with a label that represents the excellence of a historic vintage.
- Business: A wine that commands respect and demonstrates a sophisticated and updated palate.
- Prestige Gift: The ideal present for the collector who values balance and Andean elegance.
- Romantic Dinner: The freshness and complexity of the 2018 invite deep, unhurried conversation.
- Premium BBQ: Elevates the barbecue to a gourmet experience, especially with slow-cooked cuts.
- Family Meal: To share at a table where wine is the center of the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the 2018 better than other El Cepillo vintages?
Many experts consider it the most balanced vintage. It is not as cold as 2016 nor as warm as 2017, which allows the wine to have exceptional natural harmony.
What is the "chalky" texture of this wine like?
It is a tactile sensation on the tongue that comes from limestone-rich soils. It feels like a very fine and firm grain that gives structure to the wine without being aggressive.
How much decanting time does it need?
As it is a wine of great structure and from a vintage with great potential, we recommend decanting it for 45 to 60 minutes for its aromatic layers to fully reveal themselves.