Description

Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard Gualtallary 2022 represents the pinnacle of Cabernet Franc from Gualtallary, one of the most prestigious high-altitude terroirs in Argentina. Sourced from vineyards located at 1,470 meters above sea level in the Uco Valley, this Single Vineyard reflects the identity of calcareous mountain soils with precision, tension, and depth.

The 2022 vintage shows a drier and more concentrated profile, shaped by a season marked by early frosts and low rainfall, resulting in lower yields and exceptional fruit intensity. The vineyard’s rocky soils, rich in calcium carbonate and limestone, combined with a cool, dry climate, give the wine its signature verticality and mineral character.

The blend is composed of 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Malbec, co-fermented to enhance structure and complexity. Harvest is carried out manually in five different stages over one and a half months, ensuring optimal balance between acidity and phenolic ripeness. Fermentation takes place in French oak barrels and 100-year-old foudres, with 30–40% whole cluster fermentation, contributing to texture and aromatic complexity. The wine is aged for 15 months in 100-year-old French oak foudres, preserving purity while adding subtle structure.

On the nose, it reveals intense balsamic notes, orange peel, black pepper, and a distinctive stony minerality characteristic of Gualtallary. On the palate, it is vertical, sharp, and highly energetic, with vibrant acidity that provides freshness and balance. The tannins are fine-grained and precise, leading to a long, saline and persistent finish.

This is a wine of precision, tension, and aging potential, expressing the true character of one of Argentina’s most iconic terroirs.

TECHNICAL SHEET

• Winery: El Enemigo
• Type: Red
• Varietal: Cabernet Franc
• Blend: 85% Cabernet Franc, 15% Malbec
• Appellation: Gualtallary, Tupungato – Uco Valley, Mendoza
• Altitude: 1,470 m a.s.l. (4,822 ft)
• Soil: Rocky soils with high calcium carbonate and limestone content – high-density vineyards (10,000 vines/ha)
• Climate: Dry and fresh – low rainfall, early frosts, low yields
• Harvest: Manual, in 5 stages over 1.5 months
• Winemaking: Fermented in French oak barrels and 100-year-old foudres (30–40% whole cluster)
• Maceration: 23–26 days
• Aging: 15 months in 100-year-old French oak foudres
• Alcohol: 13.9%
• Total Acidity: 7.1 g/L
• pH: 3.04
• Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
• Country: Argentina
• Food Pairing: Red meats, grilled dishes, aged cheeses, mushroom-based dishes, herb-seasoned preparations
• Aging Potential: Over 10 years