Tikal Patriota Bonarda Malbec – 2018

93 pts (James Suckling)
90 pts (Wine Advocate)
Biodynamic farming & Hand-harvested
60% Bonarda, 40% Malbec
Avg Vine Age: 58 years

Tikal was founded by Ernesto Catena, a 4th generation winemaker of Italian descent who, having spent a part of his life working as a designer, and being a fervent student of Renaissance humanism, sees it as his mission to transform everything in his wine world into art, from growing the grapes to making wine to selling it.

Patriota represents the deep and enduring feelings the Argentine people have toward the malbec grape. Fittingly, this blend comes from several different appellations all across Mendoza. This serious, structured malbec comes from biodynamic vineyards that are ungrafted (on their original rootstock, not grafted to phylloxera-resistant American rootstock) and all are hand harvested.

Deep reddish purple with aromas of bright berry/cherry fruit. Big body yet very balanced with luscious layers of raspberry, cherry, and cocoa flavors. Just a hint of baking spice at the end brings it all together.

A great companion to grilled or smoked meats. Pairs well with beef and pork, and even pizza with meat toppings.