Historically in Argentina, Cabernet Sauvignon lags behind its acclaimed cousin Malbec in hype, prestige and acreage under vine.  However, as the latest release from Casarena Bodegas y Vinedos aptly demonstrates, in the right hands Cabernet is fully capable of producing equally rich, stylish and compelling wine.

2011 in the Mendoza was a bit of a challenge where frost, hail and higher than normal rainfall all contributed to a reduction in potential yields; as severe as 60% in some locations.  The vintage was essentially rescued by an Indian summer, which extended the growing season through April and allowed for good phenolic ripeness in the remaining grape clusters.  Aside from the reduced harvest, the vintage appears to be a very good one for the region.

Our newest arrival to ABCFWS, the 2011 Casarena Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.99) is a terrific example of the vintage.  It’s a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from vineyards within the highly regarded Agrelo and Perdriel sub-districts.  The wine spent 12 months in French oak barrels before bottling and it displays a deep ruby rim with ample black currant fruit, good volume, fine tannins and beautiful balance.

It’s a comparable value to Cabernet wines at higher price points and would make a nice counterpoint to Napa or Sonoma.  But hey, don’t’ just take my word for it!  This wine has already generated fair praise from Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar (92 points, March/April 2013) and Dan Altman of Argovino (91 points, July 2013).

No doubt, the Argentines would serve a Flintstone-size cut of their juicy, free-range, grass-fed steak with this tasty Cabernet.  Come to think of it, that’s a terrific idea!

Jim Greeley, SW Florida Wine Supervisor Florida

Follow me on Twitter @ABCWineJimG