Tikal Malbec Natural (75cl, 13.5%)

A certified biodynamic red blend from Mendoza, Argentina, made from 60% Malbec and 40% Syrah and bottled at 13.5% ABV in a 750ml bottle. Ernesto Catena founded Tikal after committing to biodynamic farming in the high-altitude vineyards of Vista Flores in the Uco Valley, and the wine became Argentina's first biodynamic wine to reach international markets. The grapes are grown organically and hand-harvested, then aged for 10 months in a mix of 80% French and 20% American oak barrels, with only 10% new wood. The nose opens with fresh violets and bright red cherry, then blueberry, black cherry and roasted spice, with subtle French oak beneath. The palate is juicy and lively with black raspberry and plum, building to dark chocolate, coffee and spiced mocha, balanced by lovely acidity. The finish is medium-long, carried by fine-grained tannins with a hint of baking spice and echoing mulberry and raspberry.