Bodega Aleanna - El Enemigo Cabernet Franc 2019

Decanter World Wine Awards

Tim Atkin

Patricio Tapia - Descorchados

The base for some of El Enemigo's best wines comes from the Adrianna Vineyard, some 1,400 meters above sea level in the Uco Valley. And, to be even more specific, the star of this winery is the cabernet franc that they have been working on for a decade—they were one of the pioneers in the discovery of this now-fashionable variety. This 2019 franc is a good place to start, with its herbal and spicy aromas, its red fruits and, above all, the way that the tannins react on the palate, with that chalky texture that envelops and builds a firm and vertical texture. A good starting point to understand cabernet franc according to El Enemigo.

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

It was curious to see how the Cabernet Franc in cooler years seemed to have ripened more thoroughly, and the 2019 Cabernet Franc and the 2021 felt riper than the 2020, with darker fruit and a headier sensation, despite all being around 13.5% alcohol. These bottlings are never 100% from the variety, and this one contains some 10% Malbec. It has some spicy oak in the background. 23,500 bottles were filled in July 2020.

There are some new wines at El Enemigo, a project from Alejandro Vigil and Adrianna Catena that does not stop growing. They produce an impressive 1.2 million bottles between all the ranges. They are also going to plant some more vineyards with Chardonnay.

James Suckling

This has aromas of fresh plums, raspberries, currants, tobacco leaves and bark. Medium-bodied with supple tannins and a creamy, vibrant and fresh palate. Juicy fruit. Drink now or hold.