2021 Susana Balbo Brioso Single Vineyard Agrelo

Susana Balbo is one of Argentina's leading and most innovative winemakers. In 1981, Susana graduated as the first female oenologist in Argentine wine history. She subsequently worked as a winemaker for various major wineries for 25 years. She is often considered the "Evita Perón" of Argentine viticulture. Influential, beloved, and a touch controversial. True to her motto, "Where there's a will, there's a wine," she forged her path to her ultimate dream: her own winery where she could fully express her ideas for crafting sublime wines. In 1999, she established her own winery, Dominio del Plato, in the heart of the Lujan de Cuyo region of Mendoza. The winery boasts a breathtaking setting against the breathtaking backdrop of the Andes Mountains. In 2016, the name was changed to Susana Balbo Wines.

The Brioso is part of Susana Balbo's Signature series and is therefore one of her finest and most special wines. The full name of the Brioso is SUSANA BALBO WINES AGRELO LUJÁN DE CUYO BRIOSO SINGLE VINEYARD, and this classic Single Vineyard Agrelo is a blend of 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Malbec, 22% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot, matured together in brand-new French oak barrels for 15 months. It is spicy, zesty, and has notes of berries and some spicy oak without being overpowering. There is ripeness but not excess, and a very good freshness. There are some roasted flavors (coffee, dark chocolate) on the finish. It has a range of layered flavors, including dark chocolate, tobacco, and cedar, leading to a long finish.