We continue with week three of our month of Spanish wines. The Garnacha grape has its origin in the Argon region of Spain (part of the Calatayud DO and makes some beautiful, low tannin, easy drinking wine. Spanish Garnacha was the first red wine we really fell in love with. It was only a matter of time before we dedicated an episode to these wines.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Calatayud DO
- Calatayud’s climate and geography
- History of the Garnacha grape in the area
- Grape Growing and Winemaking techniques
- Wine characteristics
- Food pairings
Look for this label on the back of the bottle for the Calatayud DO
Thanks to the Calatayud DO for all the useful information on their website. For more information check out their website.
Wine Recommendations:
Bodegas Ateca Honoro Vera Garnacha – priced around $8. The grapes in this wine are from 30-40 year old vines planted on high hillsides. This wine was my gateway into reds and once you tasted it, you’ll see why. Beautiful flavor of cherries, blueberries, white pepper and a touch of minerality. Low tannins make this an easy drinking wine that is meant to be enjoyed young. Excellent wine for making sangria.
Breca Garnacha Old Vines – Priced around $15. This wine has a certain mellow aspect about it, but doesn’t lack in nose, body, or taste. Nose of blackberry, mineral, and a little smoke. Medium body and tannins, with more blackberry and a savory quality that works with the smoke to be reminiscent of bacon. This was a really tasty wine and a great value.
Now that you know a few of our favorite Spanish Garnacha, what are yours? Leave a comment below!