(14.2% alcohol; from vines on very dry, stony soil on the right bank of Mendoza River, at 3,500 feet, which Roberto de la Mota emphasized is very different from clay soil in Agrelo; aged in one-third new, one-third once-used and one-third twice-used French oak barrels from Taransaud; the yield here was a bit lower than average): Dark ruby. Vibrant nose combines cassis, blackberry, bitter chocolate, violet and minerals. Quite dry and tightly wound; more savory and backward than the '15, conveying a strong soil-driven rocky character. This classic Cabernet is distinctly folded in on itself and needs cellaring. It may yet merit an even higher rating.
July 2018