Susana Balbo Brioso (75cl, 14.5%)

A Bordeaux-style red blend from Mendoza, Argentina, bottled at 750ml with an ABV near 14.5%. It is produced by Susana Balbo Wines in Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo, and represents the flagship tier of the portfolio. The 2021 vintage comprised 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Malbec, 18% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot. Fermentation takes place in egg-shaped cement tanks, large oak vats and open barriques, with wild yeast fermentation, before 15 months in 100% new French oak barrels. The nose shows blackberry, bramble, gravel dust, sweet tobacco, dried herbs, cedar and subtle toast. The palate brings ripe black fruit, fig, dark chocolate, peppery spice, fine-grained tannins and black tea. The finish is long, with dark fruit, toasted bread, silky tannin grip and a faint mineral echo.