The 2006 Patriota is composed of 60% Bonarda and 40% Malbec. It has greater depth and a longer finish than its 2005 counterpart. Tikal is owned by Ernesto Catena of the renowned Argentine wine family. Importer: Vine Connections, Sausalito, CA; tel. (415) 323-VINO

Try as we might to understand very ripe Bonarda blended with low-acid Malbec, it doesn’t make sense...and this example doesn’t help much. It’s a little green and funky, with mineral, asphalt and prune aromas. The palate is soft, semidark and baked, with chocolate and medium tannins on the finish. A strange blend that comes out strange.——M.S.(11/1/2008)—— 84