Paul Hobbs Vina Cobos Cocodrilo Corte 2022
(Mendoza, Argentina) - [JS 93] [WS 92, #39 of 2024]

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About the Winery:
First hired by Robert Mondavi for his expertise in oak aging, he then joined the Opus One team before moving on to Simi Winery. He founded Paul Hobbs Winery in 1991 and Vina Cobos in 1999 where has been an integral part of the Argentinean wine scene since the late 1980s when he worked with Nicolas Catena. Twice named Wine Personality of the Year by Robert Parker, Jr., Hobbs continues to be a leading consultant winemaker around the globe, serving as owner and winemaker for seven wineries on four continents. Today, both his daughter Augustina and winemaker Andres Vignoni help to produce the Vina Cobos wines.

About this Wine:
Cocodilo (crocodile) is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend, assembled in a Bordeaux style to complement the fruit, achieving optimal texture and flavor. Originating in higher altitude regions, this wine highlights the potential of each variety from its ageing in French oak barrels.

Tasting Notes: Deep ruby red with dark tones. Aromas of sweet spices, roasted red pepper, cloves and dark chocolate. On the palate it is balanced and juicy with sweet tannins and a long finish.

Composition: 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec, 1% Syrah

Ageing: 15 months in French oak barrels, 14% in first use. Unfined.

Ratings & Reviews

93 Points - James Suckling:
"This almost-Bordeaux-style blend includes 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 2% Syrah. It offers deep, dark black cherries, blueberries, umami and subtle savory notes on a mouth-filling, moderately tannic texture. Great structure comes with a lively through-line of acidity. It’s hearty and sophisticated at the same time." (Mar 2024)

92 Points, Rank #39 Top 100 Wines of 2024 - Wine Spectator:
"A medium-bodied red, with a graphite and cigar box underpinning to the generous core of plum and cassis, which lengthens around fresh acidity, adding notes of dried sage and anise on the long finish around precise tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Syrah. Drink now through 2036. 3,000 cases imported." - Aaron Romano (Nov 2024)

94 Points - Vinous (2021):
The 2021 Blend Cocodrilo is 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Cabernet Franc and 15% Malbec, 56% from the Uco Valley and 44% from Lujan de Cuyo. Aged for 15 months in 14% new French oak and the rest in used barrels. It's purple with a garnet sheen. The ripe nose features blackberry, cassis, plum and jam against a spicy, ashy backdrop before roasted bell pepper aromas appear late. It's plush and indulgent, with a velvety, full body that rounds out a potent, lasting character. A vibrant hint of ripe cassis resonates at the back of the throat.