Earlier this month, October 2024, Mr Whirly visited Garnacha country in the middle of Spain. The ancient 13th Century kingdom of Aragon is at the heart of this region an indeed the the first possible historic name of this grape is Aragonese.
I would like to briefly share the highlights with you here and then focus on the new wine ideas Mr Whirly is looking to import very soon. Its been a while since we wrote here, so its great to be back. Whirly wines is still very much in business though, delivering wines made sustainably to the off trade ( farm shops and small retailers, delis etc) and private clients as well as looking for new markets with private chefs and events. But Mr Whirly still delivers ” free to your door” Organic and Vegan wines to most SW postcodes in London. So if you require a few bottles over the coming months up until Christmas do remember to support your small, specialised wine importer rather than your local Tesco or Sainsburys to Aldi, since I need your support and I can guarantee wines of good quality too!
On the wine trip we visited three wineries of different sizes over 3 days. Most of the wineries here in the various regions of Aragon are Cooperatives. The first vineyard was a small to medium size coooperative with about 70 members of small family vineyards. Being in Tierra Alta, a wine region of Aragon but also very close to Priorat they had a varied array of wines and I have always been fascinated with Priorat since it contains a percentage of my favourite red grape, Carignan, called Cariñena. In fact on the last day of our tour we visited this wine region, Cariñena and we tasted a very beautiful but extremely expensive wine made from 100% Cariñena! More to follow on the wines tasted and potential wine imports very soon!
Discover the Richness of Garnacha from Aragon
Introduction to Garnacha
Garnacha, known as Grenache in France, is a grape variety that thrives in the warm, sun-soaked regions of Spain. Among its most celebrated origins is Aragon, where the unique terroir and climate contribute to the grape’s exceptional quality. If you’re passionate about wine, understanding Garnacha from Aragon is a journey worth taking.
The Terroir of Aragon
Aragon’s diverse landscapes, from the high-altitude vineyards of Campo de Borja to the rolling hills of Calatayud, provide the ideal conditions for Garnacha. The region’s warm days and cool nights allow for a perfect balance of sugar and acidity, resulting in wines that are both rich and refreshing.
Flavor Profile
Garnacha wines from Aragon are known for their vibrant fruit flavors. Expect notes of ripe red berries, cherries, and plums, often accompanied by subtle spice and herbal undertones. The wines can range from light and fruity to bold and full-bodied, making them versatile for food pairings.
Why Choose Garnacha from Aragon?
1. Unique Characteristics: Aragon Garnacha stands out for its depth of flavor and complexity, influenced by the region’s distinct growing conditions.
2. Food Pairing Versatility: These wines pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats and spicy foods to rich stews and hearty pasta.
3. Value for Money: Often, Garnacha from Aragon offers excellent quality at a reasonable price, making it an attractive choice for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.
How to Enjoy Garnacha
• Serving Temperature: Serve Aragon Garnacha slightly below room temperature (about 16-18°C) to enhance its flavors.
• Decanting: Consider decanting young wines for an hour to allow their aromas to develop fully.
• Food Pairings: Try it with tapas, grilled lamb, or a rich chocolate dessert for a delightful experience.
Conclusion
Garnacha from Aragon is a treasure waiting to be explored. With its rich flavors and versatility, it’s a fantastic addition to any wine lover’s collection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Garnacha is sure to impress.
Explore our selection of premium Garnacha wines from Aragon and elevate your wine experience today! I will soon have some Garnacha wines imported from this trip so will advise you very soon when the wines are available.
