Carmelo Patti - 2013 - Gran Assemblage - 750 ml.
Argentina - Mendoza
Cabernet Sauvignon - Malbec, Merlot - Cabernet Franc
Red - Vintage: 2013 - Size: 750 ml.
A blend of Cabernet, Malbec, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, Carmelo's "Gran Assemblage" reminds us very much of a rustic, "old school" Bordeaux with earthy fruit, leafy undertones, and soft restraint. This small bottling is an assemblage of the finest blocks of Carmelo's Perdriel vineyard. All grapes are co-fermented together, using native yeast.
Jumping a few vintages, as the last time I tasted the 2008, the 2013 Gran Assemblage is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from the same vineyard in Perdriel where the winemaker, year after year, sources the grapes for all his wines. All wines are hand-crafted, the grapes fermented in cement vats with indigenous yeasts. In this case, all the wine is put to mature in oak barrels, whereas most of the others are only partially oaked, yet there are no oak aromas in any of the wines, as the barrels he uses are well-seasoned. It feels very classical, proportioned, aromatic and polished, with character. This also feels ready now.
Wine Enthusiast: 90
Light cola and sarsaparilla aromas are rooty and support earthy berry scents. This Bordeaux-style blend is wide and a bit tomatoey on the palate, with savory roasted rubbery plum and tomato flavors. A saucy tasting finish closes out this more traditional wine. Drink through 2021.