Gran Enemigo - Single Vineyard El Cepillo Cabernet Franc 2019

Tim Atkin

Patricio Tapia - Descorchados

For this Gran Enemigo, winemaker Alejandro Vigil selects vines from a vineyard at an altitude of about 1,300 meters in the El Cepillo zone, near the southern end of the Uco Valley and planted on soils rich in calcium carbonate. After 15 months of aging in foudres, this cabernet franc (with 15% malbec) has a taut texture built from firm, sharp tannins. The flavors are reminiscent of red fruits, and there are herbal notes that add complexity and freshness. Lively acidity accompanies the wine until the end, leaving a lightly refreshing sensation in an elegant, vertical red with long and fruity flavors.

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The layered and complex 2019 Gran Enemigo El Cepillo Single Vineyard has an expressive nose with a mixture of curry, nutmeg, aromatic herbs and dried flowers, perfumed and expressive. The vineyard was planted in 2000 with Cabernet Franc and some 15% Malbec that fermented in concrete and a 2,000-liter oak vat with indigenous yeasts and with 50% full clusters. This bottling is always very distinct, with incredible aromatics, a medium to full-bodied palate, 13.5% alcohol and very good freshness. It's vibrant and finishes dry and with a salty twist. 7,200 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

A very mineral and deliciously austere cabernet franc that shows transparency and great tension. Seaweed, iodine, pu-er tea, oyster shells, garrigues, black pepper and wet stones. Subtle fruit here, but quite mineral! Incredible texture with powdery tannins. Super characterful! Drink or hold.