Antucurá

text and photographs © 2008 Tom Cannavan

These notes accompany our in-depth feature on Argentina.

the wines

Antucurá Calvucura 2004
The second wine of the estate, this is 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon that spends twelve months in new French oak. Very pure, very glossy blackcurrant fruit, with plenty of nicely weighted oak. The palate is smooth and silky, with masses of fat and richness. There is a lot of concentration here, but lots of oak too, and although the charry mocha character is delicious, the whole effect, with highish alcohol, is a little overpowering. £11.99. 88/100

Antucurá 2004
60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sixteen months in new French oak. Adds a little more meat and game to the profile of similar glossy, deep, muscular fruit and silky, charry oak. It is a very international style that does not play to the Uco valley's strengths perhaps. A touch of black olive adds a nice suave touch, filling the mouth with mocha and spice and svelte black plum fruit. Spicy and concentrated, and very impressive of its style. £19.99. 91/100

Antucurá 2003
50% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon. Also has a savoury, slightly earthy and gamy note that is appealing, with lots of plush plum and blackcurrant fruit. Has softened the oak slightly, but it is still hugely extracted and a touch alcoholic, though once again the quality is excellent and this spicy, deep, polished wine will find many fans. 91/100

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