Grape Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Growing Region: Agrelo (Lujan de Cuyo), Mendoza, Argentina

Consultant Winemaker: Alberto Antonini

TASTING NOTE:
Chakana is another of the unsung heroes in our wine portfolio making balanced, early drinking wines with a little bit of the x-factor in each glass. This entire 'estate' range of fruit driven wines, offers a wide variety of young wines with a short period of ageing in oak. These wines are specially designed to be enjoyed within three years of each wine being released.

This wine is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon handpicked grapes sourced from 35 year old vines grown in Mendoza Argentina. Prior to fermentation, the grapes underwent what is called a 'cold soak' which allows the juice to extract flavour and colour from the skins while avoiding bitter tannins. After 12 days of fermentation and going through malolactic, 10% of the wine had 3 months in American oak to add depth and character.

A deep purple fills your glass. On the nose you have currants and red peppers and wild spices. Then the palate is well balanced with excellent rip dark fruits, with hints of vanilla and chocolate notes. The wine has balanced fruit, ok and tannins and has a lingering finish.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this summer; and over the next 2-3 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with roasted meats, lamb shanks and BBQ steak and field mushrooms, enjoy.

Gold Medal - NZIWS, Sept. 2009.