2018 Icono 'Edición Aniversario', Penedo Borges, Mendoza
Cabernet Francs and Petit Verdot form the backbone of this blend, and bring their freshness and lift to the profound, intense red and black berry fruits. Icono is a big wine with real presence, but no hard edges. Maturation in oak- both French and American adds notes of exotic spice, coconut, dark chocolate and roasted coffee to the warm, sweet, plum and cassis fruit, A gloriously showy and hedonistic wine.
Reviews:
"It takes guts to call your wine an icon, just in case people dont agree with you, but this five-way assemblage of Cabernet Franc with 69% Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah is pretty impressive. Ginger spice and violet aromas segue into a palate of coffee bean and vanilla complemented by cassis and blueberry fruit. 2023-28."
92 points, Tim Atkin
"This has dark, chocolatey character with notes of black fruit, vanilla, pinewood and hazelnuts. Medium-to full-bodied, compact and a little tight with a firm texture and bright acidity. Layered. Needs time to open and soften. Cabernet franc, petit verdot, malbec, cabernet sauvignon and syrah. Drink now."
92 points, James Suckling