In Argentina, a chaman is a witch doctor. Is this a witchy wine? I am not sure, but it is a fine wine and a surprising departure for the Reginato clan. Up to this point, this winery has focused on sparkling wines. Their traditionally styled ‘Metodo Tradicional’ bubblies are quite good, perhaps the best made in South America. The younger generation is branching out, crafting still wines for the first time in this winery’s history. The first results are quite encouraging.
A Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, all sourced from the family’s La Consulta vineyard. This shows grace and complexity along with the trademark Mendoza lushness. On the nose, pencil shavings and fresh grass show off the varietal character of this wine. Densely structured tannins dominate the palate, with chocolate and licorice knitted through a framework of blackberry and burnt mint. On the long finish comes an alliteration: floral fruit flavors.
For a food pairing, a grilled ribeye medium rare is the way to go.