Bodega Lavaque, 'Inca' Tannat, 2023

'One-Liner'
A bold, high-altitude Tannat with dark fruit, wild herbs and plenty of structure.

Tasting Note
Deep red with violet tints in the glass. The nose leans into blackberry and plum, with a herbal edge of thyme and molle that gives it a real sense of place. On the palate it is powerful but well-shaped, with rounded, ripe tannins and a long, persistent finish. This is a fuller, darker style of red, but it stays polished rather than rustic.

Country: Argentina
Region: Salta
Sub-Region: Calchaqui Valley
Grape(s): 100% Tannat
ABV: 13.5%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian, Organic

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Tannat is not the first grape many people think of in Argentina, but up in Salta’s high-altitude valleys it can make a lot of sense. The Calchaquí Valley gives wines intensity and concentration, but also that dry, herbal mountain character that stops them feeling heavy for the sake of it. Inca Tannat leans into exactly that side of things – dark-fruited, powerful and full of sun, but still with enough freshness and savoury detail to keep it grounded.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Steak sandwich with caramelised onions and peppery rocket
- Vegetarian: Charred mushroom tacos with pickled onions and yoghurt sauce
- Vegan: Braised red cabbage with lentils and roasted onions