Etchart Privado Cabernet Sauvignon 2024

Etchart Privado Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Bodegas Etchart in Cafayate, in the Salta province of northern Argentina, in vineyards at the foot of the Andes that sit above 1,750 metres above sea level. Altitude is the defining factor here: the high-altitude sun gives full ripeness and colour, while the cold nights and large day-to-night temperature swing preserve acidity, build firm tannin and concentrate the aromatics, lending Cabernet Sauvignon its herbal and peppery lift. The arid, sandy soils and dry climate keep the vines healthy and the fruit clean. The wine spends four months in bottle before release, with the structure coming from the grape and the site rather than from oak, so the focus stays on fresh, varietal fruit. The colour is deep with a purple rim. The nose shows blackcurrant and plum over a herbal, minty note and a touch of black pepper. The palate is medium to full bodied, with firm but ripe tannins, fresh acidity and a clean, structured finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits grilled red meat, lamb and hard cheese.