Argentina is a land of passionate people where emotions come to life in our cuisine, dance, literature, and painting. My homeland of Mendoza is a magical, high-desert oasis where our vineyards produce some of Argentina's finest grapes and allow us to express our true passion for making wines of great character and individuality. Bonarda is the second most widely planted red grape in Argentina. Our Bonarda (60%) is blended with Malbec (40%), and we call this wine Patriota, or Patriot, for Bonarda and Malbec have been at the core of Argentine winemaking since its foundation.

My family and I hope you enjoy the fruits of our passion.

Ernesto Catena.

Vintage:	2008
Varietal Composition:	60% Bonarda, 40% Malbec
Vineyard Locations:	Rivadavia, La Consulta, Vista Flores
Avg. Vineyard Elev.:	960 meters above sea level
Avg. Age of Vines:	43 years
Harvest Method:	Hand-harvested
Oak Regimen:	70% French oak (40% new) and 30% second-use American oak
Clarification:	No
Filtration:	No
Alcohol:	14.5%
pH:	3.72
T.A.	5.60
Total Case Production:	5,000 cases

Tasting Notes/Food Pairing Suggestions
Aromas of bright berry/cherry fruit and electric-purple color. Like swallowing a whole bowl of mixed ripe berries at once. Big body yet very balanced, with luscious layers of raspberry, cherry, and cocoa flavors. Just a hint of baking spice at the end brings it all together. Pairs well with grilled meats such as beef and pork, smoked ham, and even pizza with meat toppings. Incredibly fun to drink!

About the Name/Label
Tikal is named after Ernesto’s son. Ernesto named this particular wine “Patriota” (“Patriot”) since Bonarda and Malbec grapes have been at the core of Argentina’s great winemaking tradition since its foundation. The original artwork of this passionate dancing couple was created by Ernesto’s close friend and artist, Ariel Mlynarzewicz. We have no idea how to pronounce Ariel’s last name.