Chakana, Estate Selection Red Blend Brut Zero I mildly prefer the Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet

I mildly prefer the Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet because of its marginally better sense of verve but I underscore that the difference is slight and it’s obviously an open question as to how the two wines will compare over time – in sum

There is muscle here but essentially this is a Charmes of refinement though the hugely long finish is explosive

The 2021 Ultreia La Vitoriana shows some unusual toasty notes

Ageing is in 500-litre barrels with no new oak

Attractive spice

Chakana, Estate Selection Red Blend Brut Zero I mildly prefer the Bienvenues-Bâtard-MontrachetThe 2012 Estate Red is a blend of 60% Malbec, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Shiraz aged 10 months in 100% new French oak. This killer red comes from Chakana s two well placed vineyards in southern Mendoza, Agrelo and Alta Mira. Aromas of flowers, blackberries, camphor, forest floor and subtle new oak emerge from this full bodied, textured, opulent blockbuster. Extremely pure and rich, this bargain priced Malbec should drink well for 6 10+ years. If