Bodega Tapiz Alta Coleccion Cabernet Franc 2020 Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina 75cl

Bodega Tapiz sits among the highest vineyards in the Uco Valley, in the pioneering San Pablo district that owner Patricia Ortiz, one of Argentina’s leading women in wine, helped put on the map. Altitude is the estate’s signature, and it suits Cabernet Franc especially well.

The Alta Coleccion is a step up from the everyday range, a single-varietal Cabernet Franc grown where cool mountain air preserves the grape’s aromatic, herb-edged character. It is pure Cabernet Franc, made to show elegance and perfume rather than sheer weight.

The 2020 offers a fresh, lifted take on the variety. We hold little on the specifics of the season, so we let the aromatics lead the story rather than fill in detail we cannot verify. It is drinking well now and has the balance to hold for a few years. There is no rush, but no need to wait either.

It shows a deep ruby colour and a complex nose of violet, raspberry, wild mint and gentle spice. The palate is medium-bodied and notably balanced, elegant and long, with the savoury, herbal thread that makes good Cabernet Franc so moreish.

One for drinkers who enjoy Loire or cool-climate Cabernet Franc and want to explore a high-altitude Argentine version. Serve at around 16 to 17 degrees with roast pork, herb-crusted lamb or earthy mushroom dishes. If you enjoy Chinon or other cool-climate Cabernet Franc, this altitude-grown version feels like a bright, exotic relative, all perfume and poise, and a rewarding step up from the everyday.