Tikal is owned by Ernesto Catena and is named after his son. Ernesto spent his childhood in the vineyards of Mendoza among wine-growers and local pundits. Since then, he has experienced a kaleidoscope of cultures, living in New York, Buenos Aires, Berkeley, Cambridge (MA), Milan and London. But his heart remains in his homeland of Argentina where he now lives. This wine, Amorio, or "Love Affair", is so named to convey the deep and enduring feeling the Argentine people have toward the Malbec grape. The original artwork of this passionate dancing couple was created by Ernesto's close friend and artist, Ariel Mlynarzewicz. The vines used for this wine are 40 years old; the wine spent 12 months in French oak, 60% new.

Rating

The 2006 Amorio (100% Malbec), from a great vintage, spent 12 months in French oak, 60% new. It is opaque purple-colored with a splendid perfume of pain grille, vanilla, spice box, black cherry, and blackberry. Medium to full-bodied, it has a plush palate feel, excellent balance, and nicely combines elegance with power. It has enough silky tannin to evolve for 4-6 years and should drink well through 2020. - Jay Miller Wine Advocate 92 Points This aromatic and darkly colored effort has inviting aromas of dark berries, vanilla and toast. The structured and lush flavors include black cherry, blackberry, espresso and spice with a medium to long finish. Although tempting to consume now, it should benefit from another year in the bottle and should drink well for at least another 5 years. The Wine Buyer 92 Points