2022 Mendoza Cabernet Sauvignon, Kaiken Ultra

• Style: Muscular, structured Cabernet
• Taste: Dark plum, clove, pepper-spice oak, ripe tannins
• Food: Roasted beef, braises, BBQ, aged cheese
• Occasion: Sunday lunch, weeknight dinner
• Serve: 16–18°C, decant 30 mins, drink now or age 5 years

In the Glass — Tasting Notes

Deep ruby with layered aromas of plum and clove. The palate delivers black fruit weight, pepper and spice from French oak ageing, and ripe tannins that glide rather than grip. At 14.5% alcohol, this is balanced and food-ready — Cabernet Sauvignon providing the structure and precision that lets both vintage and site speak clearly.

The Winery — Kaiken

Kaiken is Montes, a Chilean producer, crossing the Andes to establish themselves in Mendoza when Cabernet Sauvignon had been somewhat eclipsed by Malbec's rise. Their vineyards occupy the heart of Mendoza and further south in Valle de Uco, where premium producers source exceptional fruit. The 2022 grapes came from Vistalba, an 80-year-old parcel with real pedigree. Late October frosts, January heat, and February rains tested the vineyard, but dry warmth through late-March harvest achieved perfect ripeness. Hand-picked and sorted fruit underwent a week's cold soak before fermentation in concrete tanks, three weeks on skins post-fermentation, and malolactic conversion in tank. Twelve months in French oak (one-third new) and six months in bottle gave it composure and balance.

At Your Table — Food Pairing & Serving

This muscular wine pairs brilliantly with roasted and braised beef, barbecued meat, stews, and sharp aged cheese. Serve at 16–18°C, decanting for 30 minutes to open the structure. Perfect for Sunday lunch gatherings or weeknight dinners when you want something serious and food-focused. If you're building a collection around our Argentina selection or exploring Mendoza producers in depth, this Cabernet Sauvignon is where to start — it'll age gracefully for another five years, though it drinks beautifully today.