El Montanista 'Criollas Tintas', San Juan, Argentina 2021
El Montanista 'Criollas Tintas', San Juan, Argentina 2021
Very pale, like a watercolour artist has dipped his red brush into a glass of water. Unsurprisingly, the wine itself is light and breezy, like a Pinot Noir or a Trousseau, with red cherry flesh and orange citrus flavours and a hint of wet stone, which ties a savoury knot on the finish and stops it becoming a simple fruit bomb. It has enough weight to fill the palate, so it feels satisfyingly ample for a light-bodied wine. The word ‘Criolla’ refers to grape varieties that have been prevalent in Argentina since the arrival of the conquistadors in the 16th Century and this is a field blend of Criolla Grande, Criolla Chica, Cereza and Canela from 80 year-old vines at high altitude. 13% alc. Drink now-2028.
Press review:
Jamie Goode: “Pale red in colour, this is highly aromatic with red cherries and cranberries and some dried herb notes. Juicy and supple in the mouth it’s an easy glou glou style, but it really puts weight on in the mouth and expands, showing some tannic grip.” 94 points