Bodegas CARO Petit CARO 2021

Winery Background and History

Bodegas CARO is a collaborative venture between two esteemed wine families: the Rothschilds of Château Lafite Rothschild in Bordeaux and the Catenas of Catena Zapata in Mendoza, Argentina. Established in 1999, the partnership aims to combine French winemaking expertise with Argentina’s exceptional terroir, particularly focusing on the Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon varietals. The name “CARO” is a portmanteau of “Catena” and “Rothschild,” symbolizing the fusion of these two winemaking legacies.

Producer and Winemaker

Petit CARO is produced under the guidance of the winemaking teams from both Château Lafite Rothschild and Catena Zapata. This collaboration ensures that the wine benefits from the meticulous vineyard management and vinification techniques characteristic of both houses. The combined expertise results in a wine that reflects the elegance of Bordeaux and the vibrant character of Mendoza’s terroir.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for Petit CARO 2021 are sourced from selected plots in Luján de Cuyo and Paraje Altamira in the Uco Valley, regions renowned for their high-altitude vineyards and diverse soil compositions. Luján de Cuyo offers old vine Malbec with deep roots in alluvial soils, while Paraje Altamira provides Cabernet Sauvignon grown in calcareous soils at elevations exceeding 1,000 meters. The combination of altitude, diurnal temperature variation, and soil diversity contributes to the wine’s complexity and balance.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2021 vintage underwent traditional vinification processes, including fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve fruit purity. Post-fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, a portion of which were new, to impart subtle oak nuances and enhance structure. This aging regimen allows the wine to develop complexity while maintaining the vibrant fruit characteristics inherent to its varietals.

Tasting Notes

Petit CARO 2021 exhibits a deep ruby color with intense violet hues. The nose is expressive, offering aromas of red fruits such as raspberries and strawberries, complemented by notes of coffee and figs. On the palate, the wine is complex and juicy, with flavors of plums, spices, and a touch of graphite. The well-integrated tannins and balanced acidity lead to an elegant and persistent finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as beef tenderloin or lamb chops, and hearty dishes like mushroom risotto or beef bourguignon. Its robust structure and nuanced flavors also complement aged cheeses and charcuterie. The wine’s balance of fruit and acidity makes it versatile for a range of culinary pairings.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate Petit CARO 2021, serve it at a temperature between 16–18°C (60–64°F). Decanting the wine for 30 minutes prior to serving can help open up its aromatic profile and soften the tannins. Use Bordeaux-style glasses to concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

Petit CARO 2021 is suitable for both immediate enjoyment and medium-term aging. When stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent temperature and humidity—the wine can develop additional complexity over the next 5–7 years. Proper cellaring will allow the integration of flavors and the emergence of tertiary notes, enhancing its overall profile.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 69% Malbec

• 30% Cabernet Sauvignon

• 1% Ancellotta

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5%

Scores

• Decanter: 94 points

• Descorchados: 92 points