Vina Don Melchor, Cabernet Sauvignon, Puente Alto 2019

Very perfumed and aromatic with blackcurrant, sweet-tobacco and Spanish-cedar character. Full-bodied with ultra fine tannins that build on the palate and take the fruit and other flavors to an endless finish. More refined than the perfect 2018 and almost as compelling. Drink in 2023 or after.

A subtle hint of tobacco spiciness precedes the fruity notes of juicy, red plums on the nose. A touch of smoke and the merest trace of tar appear with more air but the freshness of the fruit is striking. The palate is supple, rich with exquisitely aromatic cassis that has wonderfully bright streaks of red fruit in its dark berry make-up. There is no heaviness, just beautiful, supple depth. Fine tannins are ripe and smooth, lending backbone to this immensely elegant wine that shows off Cabernet Sauvignon's essential finesse.

There is a little more ripeness in the 2019 Don Melchor, which in warmer years shows notes of ripe plums and is subtly balsamic. The palate is round and powerful, with good balance and nice integration of the oak. As usual, there is a combination of elegance and power, with subtle mintiness and harmony. 156,000 bottles were produced. It was bottled in December 2020.