Gimenez Mendez, Canelones (Uruguay) Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

 By virtual consensus 2011 is the best vintage in the history in the history of winemaking in Uruguay, and consumers would be wise to keep that in mind when presented with opportunities to purchase wines such as this.  Cabernet is generally difficult to ripen in  Uruguay, but there’s nothing remotely vegetal or even herbal in the aromas of this wine, which was certainly made from grapes with thorough physiological ripeness.  The fruit component recalls dark cherries and berries and exhibits outstanding purity and balance.  Focused and very persistent in flavor, with tasteful edging from oak, this is just terrific.