Hi everyone,

This week I tasted Atteca 2007 Old Vine Garnacha.  Now this is a grape I really like, Garnacha  (Grenache in France), performs really well in hot sunny vineyards with arid growing conditions.  When the vines are young they produce a fruity, perfumed, medium-bodied red wine good for light meals and easy drinking.  When the vines have achieved an age of 75-100+ years they are capable of producing wines with a amazingly full character while remaining very smooth on the palate.

They are available from Spain, Southern France,  Australia, and the US, but usually command a more modest price from Spanish producers.  Bodegas Ateca’s OV Garnacha  is a great example of the grape.  The bouquet is full of smoky bacon and blackberries that continue with more fruit and spice on the palate.   Cherry, plum, and dark cassis are all there, as is a pleasant mineral aspect on the finish.  I highly recommend this wine for all around enjoyment, but for an interesting food pairing try it with spicy foods like barbeque, Indian foods (especially lamb dishes), and spicy fajitas.   

Atteca Old Vine Garnacha 2007 Bodegas Ateca, Calatayud DO, Spain  $16.99

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