El Montanista Criollas Tinto, 2021

This is another exciting new wine for us from Argentina. A field blend of a relatviely unknown grape variety called Criollas, as three clones of this crunchy juicy little red number. I believe historically planted for the wine to be served at Mass.

No these 80 year old vines are producing some amazing grapes, the grapes are hand picked and then have a shortish ferment of about 7 – 10 days in small concrete vats with about 30% whole bunches included (which helps natural phenolics and antioxidants). The winery practices organic viticulture, but they are not officially certified organic.

So what does it taste like, well something between a Pinot Noir, Cinsault and/or Carignan and Cabernet Franc. It has a lovely red berried/cherry notes on the nose which are confirmed on the palate and there is more weight and structure on the middle pallete with light-medium tannins complimenting the fruit. All in all, quite yummy!