El Enemigo, Mendoza (Argentina) Bonarda 2020 ($36, Winebow)

Argentina is known for its Malbec but Bonarda, Argentina’s second most widely planted red variety, is ready to surprise you. Also known as Charbono or Douce Noire, Bonarda is traditionally fruit-forward when compared to Malbec, and rarely sees oak aging as a winemaking choice. El Enemigo ages their Bonarda in large foudres for a year before bottling. Their 2020 vintage shows raspberry, red cherry skins, but also has a leathery undertone with violets, prune and fig notes. This is a ready-to-drink red that will easily pair with a wide array of red meat dishes.
92 Vince Simmon