BIRA is an acronym for “Bernasconi, Isgro, Republica Argentina” founded in 2017 by two Italian-Argentinian wine professionals, Federico Isgró and Santiago Bernasconi, who shared a passion for Italian wine and wanted to explore and reestablish Italian varietals in Argentina and the Nicolo Brunetto that this wine is dedicated to was a very kind and helpful cook on the ship that brought Federico Isgro’s father to Buenos Aires. It is surprising and a tribute to the massive success of Malbec, that French varietals currently account for 78% of the grapes grown in Argentina despite the huge influence of Italian culture in Argentina, where 62% of the population claim some Italian heritage and where, prior to the ascent of Malbec in the 90s, Italian varietals were the majority of the grapes grown. There is some reduction in this blend of 80% Sangiovese and 10% apiece of Syrah and Merlot that argues for an extended decant, but once that blows off the nose of intense black cherry and fresh flowers is gorgeous and the subtle spice notes of anis from the Sangioves and clove from the large 500L, 15% new, French Oak serves to accentuate and intensify the fruit. The tannins and acid are moderate and would pair well with grilled red meat or hearty stews.