Wines Unspecified Catena - Cabernet Franc - 2012

This 2012 red wine from Catena, one of Argentina’s most celebrated producers, showcases the winery’s flair for crafting expressive and elegant bottlings. The label describes it as a Cabernet Franc cuvée, suggesting an emphasis on this varietal, which is renowned in Mendoza for its capacity to develop both plush fruit and herbal complexity. As with many high-calibre Mendoza reds, the vintage and careful vinification likely combine ripe berry fruit with savoury spice and a refined tannic structure. Extended aging, both in barrel and bottle, is typical for top examples from Catena, adding layers of texture and subtle oak-inflected aromas to this wine’s profile.

Mendoza is Argentina’s flagship region, sitting in the foothills of the Andes at elevations that create striking diurnal temperature shifts. The poor, well-draining alluvial soils, coupled with abundant sunshine and cool nights, help the grapes retain acidity while developing concentrated flavour. Over the past three decades, Mendoza has emerged as a world benchmark for both Malbec and Bordeaux varietals—Cabernet Franc among them—thanks to a combination of historical expertise and modern winemaking innovation. The Catena family, in particular, has played a vital role in elevating the profile of Argentine wines on the international stage.

A Cabernet Franc-led Mendocino wine pairs well with food that balances richness and earthiness. Consider serving it with Argentine classics such as grilled beef ribeye or empanadas de carne, as well as with duck breast or roasted lamb with herbs, dishes which echo the subtle green notes often found in this varietal. For a vegetarian pairing, mushroom risotto or lentil stew would complement the wine’s depth and structure.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Allowing it to breathe for an hour before pouring will help reveal its profound aromatics and harmonious palate, showcasing the complexity and finesse that Catena consistently delivers.