Benegas Estate Cabernet Franc 14.5% 75cl

Cabernet Franc seems to do so well in Mendoza, ripening beautifully and harnessing so well those classic characteristics – ripe red fruits, bell peppers, maybe a touch of graphite, and silky tannins.

This gorgeous example from Benegas is one of the ‘bigger’ examples on offer, with plenty of depth to the dark fruit character and a sensible, judicious use of oak.

In the glass, this is a clear ruby red with deep purple hints. The nose offers herbs to begin, followed by fresh and complex red fruits: currants, raspberries and plums. It is primarily elegant in the mouth, meaty in the mid-palate with friendly ripe and round tannins, and long and silky at the finish.

Suggested pairings are Italian and Greek dishes: tomato sauces, gourmet pizzas, grilled meats, poultry, and lamb with fine herbs. Serve between 15C and 17C.