Chacra - Cincuenta y Cinco Pinot Noir 2021

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "The élevage for the 2021 Cincuenta y Cinco was different from the past; they have now aged 40% in concrete tanks (it used to be 25%), 40% in French oak barrels and 20% in clay amphorae for nine months. They use cover crops in the vineyard, where they don't even use sulfur or copper. It fermented in a round and wide concrete vat with indigenous yeasts for 12 to 15 days with full clusters and an infusion with little extraction. It has moderate ripeness and 12% alcohol, with more tension than the others. This is basically the same wine as the Sin Azufre but with a little more oak, which is barely noticeable but with some spiciness and Burgundian character developing tantalizing notes of violet pastille with time in the glass. It has a bright ruby color and a complex and subtle nose full of elegance and nuance. The palate is medium-bodied, with very fine tannins and supple flavors, primary, young and apparently weightless and ethereal but full of inner energy. It has bright flavors of fresh cherries and raspberries and a citrus twist of orange peel that adds freshness."

JAMES SUCKLING: „Perfumed and floral aromas of rose petals, rose hips, wild strawberries, raspberries, sliced mushrooms and orange zest. Bright and succulent with a medium body and very fine, firm tannins. Delightful citrus and crunchy red-fruit character with pretty rose-petal notes throughout. Drink from 2024. From biodynamically grown grapes.“

DECANTER: „An eloquent Pinot Noir made by Piero Incisa della Rocchetta at his biodynamic vineyard in Mainqué, Patagonia, which was first planted in 1955. Adopting a minimal intervention approach and aged – or rather cultivated – in concrete and Burgundian barrels for 11 months, it’s bright ruby red in the glass and has a perfumed nose of cherry and forest fruits, black tea, mushrooms, herbs and mineral aromas. On the palate it’s complex, layered and vibrant with chewy tannins and lasting flavour.“