Séptima Gran Reserva 2023

Séptima Gran Reserva comes from Mendoza in the Cuyo region of Argentina, blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Tannat. Mendoza's vineyards sit high in the rain shadow of the Andes, on free-draining alluvial and stony soils under intense mountain sunlight. The altitude brings cold nights that follow hot, sunny days, and this wide diurnal range ripens the fruit fully while holding onto acidity and firming up colour and tannin. Tannat and Cabernet contribute structure and grip, while Malbec adds the plush, dark-fruited core for which the region is known. The blend matures eighteen months in barrel, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood resolves the considerable tannin, integrates the components and builds chocolate, spice and a leathery, savoury depth over the fruit. The colour is dense, near-opaque purple. The nose shows ripe black plum, dark chocolate, sweet spice and toasty oak with a tobacco edge. The palate is full bodied and powerful, with ripe, mouth-coating tannin, warming alcohol and a long finish. Decant and serve at 17 to 18 degrees. It is built for grilled and roasted red meats.