GRAN ENEMIGO
CHACAYES 2017
SINGLE VINEYARD • UCO VALLEY • ARGENTINA
"The untamed energy of the mountain captured in a bottle: the Cabernet Franc that redefined the limits of Argentina."
The Roar of Los Chacayes
The Gran Enemigo Chacayes 2017 is a masterpiece of precision. Hailing from one of the rockiest and most extreme areas of the Uco Valley, this wine reflects Alejandro Vigil's vision for Cabernet Franc. The 2017 vintage, marked by exceptional freshness, allowed for slow ripening that highlights notes of wild herbs and wet stone. Aged in old wooden foudres to allow for micro-oxygenation without masking the fruit, this wine is a lesson in tension, elegance, and infinite aging potential.
1. Identity Profile
Winery: El Enemigo (Alejandro Vigil & Adrianna Catena).
Region: Los Chacayes, Uco Valley, Mendoza.
Vintage: 2017.
Aging: 15 months in 100-year-old French oak foudres.
Volume: 750 ml.
Soils: Alluvial of granitic origin with superficial calcareous soil.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Deep ruby red color with intense and bright violet hues.
Nose: Fascinating complexity. Aromas of crunchy red fruits, cassis, and raspberry, intertwined with notes of black pepper, wild thyme, and a distinct mineral character reminiscent of graphite and limestone.
Palate: Vertical and electric entry. Acidity is the backbone of this wine, giving it an almost saline freshness. The tannins are fine-grained, like chalk, providing an elegant texture and a persistent, vibrant finish.
3. Wine Architecture
4. Pairing and Suggested Moments
Gastronomy: A wine for high-end meats. Excellent with peppered ribeye, Patagonian lamb on the spit, or duck confit. Its freshness also makes it ideal for pairing with wild mushroom dishes or black truffles.
Suggested Moments:
- Special Celebration: To toast successes that required effort and boldness.
- High-Level Business: A label that commands respect and demonstrates refined taste for the best of South America.
- Gourmet Barbecue: Elevates a barbecue of premium cuts to a professional tasting experience.
- Romantic Dinner: The elegance of Cabernet Franc creates an atmosphere of shared sophistication.
- Prestigious Gift: The ideal gift for the collector looking for "terroir wines" with outstanding international scores.
- Family Meal: To turn a Sunday into a memorable gastronomic milestone.
frequently asked questions (FAQS)
What differentiates Chacayes from other Gran Enemigo?
Chacayes is known for being the wilder and more mineral of the Single Vineyard series. It has more pronounced tension and calcareous notes than Gualtallary or El Cepillo.
Should I decant the 2017 vintage?
Yes, it is highly recommended. At least 60 minutes of decanting will allow its vertical structure to open up and reveal the complexity of the herbs and spices.
Why is Cabernet Franc used?
Alejandro Vigil believes that Cabernet Franc is the variety that best expresses the minerality of the Uco Valley, surpassing even Malbec in terms of elegance and aging potential.