Apelación Cabernet Franc by Zuccardi is an interesting expression of this variety, made by a winery more widely known for its Malbec. Made from 100% Cabernet Franc, the grapes are carefully sourced from select vineyards in Paraje Altamira and across the wider Uco Valley in Mendoza, Argentina, a region renowned for its high-altitude viticulture.
The wine is fermented using native yeasts in concrete vats, a traditional technique that allows for a pure expression of the fruit. It is then matured in 2,500-litre foudres, which offer subtle oak influence without overpowering the varietal character. The 2020 vintage comes in at 14% ABV.
The bottle itself is worth noting, featuring an attractive label inspired by Alexander von Humboldt’s mid-18th-century botanical illustrations, lending an air of sophistication.
I highly recommended you allow this wine time to breathe, whether in a decanter or simply in the glass. The longer it is given, the more expressive it becomes. This wine has ruby red hue. Aromatically, it offers cherry and raspberry, intertwined with a touch of coffee. This medium-bodied wine has low tannins and a silky mouthfeel from start to finish. The taste is fruit-forward, displaying fresh red berries with a subtle hint of spice that emerges gently on the finish.
Retailing at around £19.99, it is available through the Oxford Wine Company, Noble Grape Wines, Latitude Wine and Harvey Nichols.
