2016 Sena, Aconcagua Valley

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The truly excellent 2016 Seña could very well be the finest wine produced at this estate that started as a joint venture between Robert Mondavi and Eduardo Chadwick and now continues under the guidance of Chadwick and the excellent hand of winemaker Francisco "Pancho" Baettig. The grapes were picked later in 2016, and the final blend is 55 Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 Malbec, 12 Petit Verdot, 8 Carmenere and 5 Cabernet Franc, with more Malbec and considerably less Carmenere than in the past. This is "only" 13.5 alcohol and has remarkable acidity and freshness, as well as overall balance and elegance that surpasses all previous vintages. Twelve percent of the volume matured in oak foudres, while the rest was aged in barrique (73 new) for 22 months. Even so, the wine is not oaky and comes through as harmonious and elegant within the house style. It's serious, dry and elegant, with zero concessions to sweetness. A mineral and profound red blend. 72,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in February 2018.