From Federico Benegas at the Finca Libertad vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina. There’s an amazing history here. The vineyards were originally planted by Tiburcio Benegas in about 1890 when he brought French vine stock over from Bordeaux. He was Governor of Mendoza at the time and also borrowed 5 million Francs and set up the Bank of  Mendoza.  The vineyards susequently flourished and went on to become El Trapiche which dominated the quality end of Argentinian wine production for most of the 20th century. It was still kept in the Benegas family for most of this period until it became so big it was inevitably split up and sold off. Federico J Benegas, a wonderful man and a friend of mine, simply took his Bank of Mendoza cheque book and bought back the original vineyard with quite possibly the best vines in Argentina, and set about striving for viticultural perfection. Michel Rolland of Bordeaux helps with the blending on all the Benegas reds – and as a result they’re all superb wines.

What’s it like?

Truly sensational. Made from vines over 80 years old, aged in new French oak. This is a big, supple, full flavoured wine. Wonderfully smooth with mature tannins and incredible length. The French just wish they could produce wines as good as this in Bordeaux. Only 2000 bottles per vintage are produced.

Benegas Lynch Cabernet Franc 2005 is available from a couple of good independent retailers but the best deal around is with www.goodwineonline.co.uk at £32.49 (way cheaper than anything comparable from Bordeaux)