At a glance

Producer

Bodega Norton

Region

Mendoza, Argentina

Grape variety

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$14-18 USD (750ml, retail, as of mid-2024)

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, cherry, cassis, and plum with notes of bell pepper, tobacco leaf, and subtle vanilla and spice from oak aging. Medium body, moderate acidity, and a persistent finish.

Evolution: With time (2024-2026), the wine will gain notes of cedar, leather, tobacco, dried herbs, and softened fruit, while tannins further integrate. Oak influence will harmonize and tertiary aromas will increase.

At peak: At peak (2024-2026), expect a harmonious blend of ripe dark fruit, balanced acidity, mellowed tannins, and nuanced secondary (cedar, tobacco, cocoa) and emerging tertiary (earth, dried herb) complexity.

Structure

Acidity

Medium, providing vibrancy and balance. Sufficient to support further short- to mid-term aging while maintaining freshness.

Tannins

Medium to medium-plus, firm but ripe; the 2020 vintage shows structured yet approachable tannins due to careful winemaking and oak maturation. Tannins are beginning to resolve but will integrate further over 2-3 years.

Alcohol

Moderate (typically 13.5–14.5%), presently well-integrated and not overly pronounced.

Aging potential

6-8 years from vintage; best consumed by 2028 for optimal freshness and complexity.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2026

Optimal window

2023 to 2028

Current status

Enjoyable now, but still on an upward trajectory. Primary and secondary notes are evident, with some structure for further short-term aging.

Current condition

Bright, fresh, youthful fruit profile with integrated oak and moderate tannins. Approachable, with potential to further soften and gain complexity.

The 2024-2026 window is considered peak as primary fruit remains vibrant, tannins soften for smoother mouthfeel, and secondary complexity is most expressive. After this period, fruit begins to recede, structure may feel hollow, and tertiary notes can overshadow freshness, leading to a less balanced or more tired profile.

Food pairing

Excellent with grilled or roasted red meats (beef, lamb), hard cheeses (aged cheddar, manchego), and hearty dishes (ragù, peppercorn steak, empanadas). Pairs well now with barbecued meats and charred vegetables; as the wine ages, it complements richer, more savory preparations such as braised short ribs or mushroom-based dishes as tannins further soften.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium to medium-plus tannins that are firm but ripe, indicating that decanting will help further integrate the tannins and enhance the wine's aromas and flavors.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water conservation, renewable energy use, cover crops, reduced chemical intervention, and social responsibility programs.

Bodega Norton is a regional leader in sustainable winegrowing among larger producers, making visible progress in ethical and environmental standards but not yet fully certified organic or biodynamic.