Lagarde Guarda Cabernet Franc 2021 – Luján’s Luxe Franc with Chilean Cool

Tasting Notes

Red wine with a red carpet entrance: expect spicy blue-fruited aromas with whispers of sliced chilies, violets, walnuts, even pine cones for that undergrowth vibe. On the palate? It's fresh and juicy, medium-bodied, with crunchy tannins morphing into chalky polish, leading to a savory, lingering finish.

Other corners of the web nod to complex black‑fruit, tobacco, smoke, and elegant structure—Cab Franc showing off with substance.

Meet the Winemaker

Lagarde is historic—founded in 1897, now shepherded by powerhouse sisters Sofia and Lucila Pescarmona. The Guarda collection taps micro-terroir magic—single-vineyard bottlings that flex personality without the flex. Cabernet Franc here comes from a cold, stony block in Perdriel (Luján de Cuyo), and it’s both heritage and haute wrapped in one label.

Wine Specs

• Varietal: 100% Cabernet Franc

• Vintage: 2021

• Region: Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza – vineyard blocks chosen for elevation and stony soils

• Winemaking: Long maceration, stainless-controlled fermentation, aged 12 months in French oak, balancing structure and finesse
  

• ABV: Around 14–14.4%
  

• Serving Temp: 16–18 °C—cool vibe, not cold

Critic Reviews

• 91 pts — Wine Spectator: “Spicy, blue-fruited nose with sliced chilis, violets, walnuts, pine cones… fresh, juicy, medium body, chalky polished tannins and savory finish.”
  

• 90+ pts — James Suckling/Vin Chicago: Mirrors the above tasting note—snappy fruit, crunch, and polish.
  

Food Pairings

Because this Cabernet Franc can walk and chew gum:

• Herb-roasted pork or grilled eggplant—savory mirrors savory

• Lamb stew with root veg—hearty meets elegance

• Mild aged cheeses like Manchego or raclette—fat meets nuance

Why You Need This Bottle

Because “Heritage Malbec” is everywhere. Here’s recognizing Argentinian Franc finesse with actual structure and soil whisper. It’s youthful but timeless, edgy yet elegant. This Cabernet Franc says, “I know my Argentina—but I also respect Burgundy roots.”

Ready to sip with substance? Hit Add to Cart and make Lagarde Guarda Cabernet Franc 2021 your elegant go-to. (Psst—Club folks, that free-shipping flex is already in the cart.)