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2017 Pulenta Estate Gran Cabernet Franc XI

Not Currently In Auction

Latest Sale Price

January 21, 2024 - $37

Estimate

RATINGS

95James Suckling

Complex aromas of blackcurrants, iodine, dried citrus and lemon-tree leaf. Full body. Creamy, fine tannins give a lovely texture and mouth feel.

93Vinous / IWC

...nose delivers intense aromas with inviting, well-defined notes of roasted red pepper, black currant, sour cherry and pepper. The wood comes out in the mouth, where it brings softness, volume, muscle and outline. This is pure but elegantly packaged power with a sustained, flavorful finish.

REGION

Argentina, Mendoza (Cuyo), Luján de Cuyo

Luján de Cuyo was Argentina’s first official wine appellation when it was established in 1993. The appellation is named for the city of Luján de Cuyo, the department capital. Vineyards in this appellation are in the upper Mendoza Valley, and they are often at altitudes of 3,300 feet or more. The soil is sandy and alluvial with clay underneath and moderate rainfall encourages growth. Historically the area grew pink skin grapes for slightly sweet pink or white wines. Since the late 1980s, however, Malbec has been Mendoza’s most important grape, since it makes a rich, dark, robust, age-worth red. The second most important red grape is Bonarda, which is thought to be the same grape that California growers know as Charbono. Italian and Spanish red grapes including Sangiovese, Barbera and Tempranillo were brought by immigrants, and they are grown today. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Torrontés and numerous other red and white grapes are also grown successfully. Considered by many to be the most desirable wine appellation in Argentina, Luján de Cuyo has attracted attention from international winemakers and producers.

TYPE

Red Wine, Cabernet Franc

This is a parent grape to Cabernet Sauvignon. It most likely originates from Basque country. It is an excellent blending grape, known for making the exquisite Cheval-Blanc. Franc is a little hardier on a vine than Sauvignon, but drinks smoothly at the table.