2017 Caro

The path taken over the years by CARO, a joint venture between Catena and Rothschild, has seen some interesting turns, shifting from Luján de Cuyo to the Uco Valley. Today, it is a blend of 74% Malbec and 26% Cabernet Sauvignon from Paraje de Altamira, aged for 12–18 months in French barrels. Bordeaux in style, it is bright purple in the glass and dominated in this instance by elegant woody flavors, revealing hints of plum and violet along with touches of orange petit-fours and bell pepper for complexity. Juicy and malleable, with a texture kept gently in check by active tannins, it delivers a cleansing finish of mint and herbs. A wine with precisely defined flavors in which each detail has been considered at length. Perfectly balanced for cellar aging.

“The drier, hotter year makes this a big, plusher, denser red than the 2016, but this is still a brilliant wine in its own, different way. Entirely aged in new French wood, it combines Malbec and 26% Cabernet Sauvignon to brilliant effect. Scented, polished and refined, with granular tannins, floral top notes and intense blackcurrant and black cherry fruit. A cuvée that will reward patience. Drink 2022-2030.”

“This is one of the most direct and clear Caros in a long time with blue-fruit, violet and sandalwood aromas and flavors. Crushed-stone, too. Full-bodied, yet tight and contracted with a level of shyness to its strength. The length derives from the excellence of the cabernet. One for the cellar. Blend of 74% malbec and 26% cabernet sauvignon. Try after 2023, but exciting to drink all the same.”