February 2018 Imported Wine: 2015 Anciano Clasico Garnacha, Valencia, Spain
Fine Wine Source Wine
February 2018
Anciano:
Bodegas Navalon is surrounded by the ancient vineyards of DO Valdepeñas in the heart of Spain. The bodega has been the passion of the same local family for several generations. It was originally founded at the start of the 20th Century by Don Juan Sánchez, a landowner who decided to build a winery to make his own wine, rather than selling his grapes to others. Valdepeñas means Valley of Rocks, referring to the special soil, strewn with pebbles and larger stones. These stones soak up the sun’s rays during the day, and then release their heat during the night. Deep underground, layers of chalk and clay retain water which is vital for refreshing the vines during the intense summer heat. At an average altitude of 705m above sea level, the vineyards benefit from a dry continental climate with over 2,500 hours of sun and low rainfall, resulting in an ideal microclimate for growing vines. The Anciano wines are crafted with individual care and attention, each expression in their range shows its own intriguing and unique character. From their bright, vibrant Crianza to their smooth, mature Gran Reservas, their award-winning range showcases the best of Spanish winemaking.
About:
Garnacha, Spain’s other classic red varietal, is now offered alongside the Tempranillo wines that have made Anciano a favorite around the world. Norrel Robertson MW has selected this stunning wine from Valencia, on Spain’s Mediterranean coast. Terres dels Alforins is a fertile valley in the south west of the province of Valencia and is called the “Valencian Tuscany”: the valley is comprised of a multitude of small plots between the sea and the “meseta” where vines have been tended since Roman times. The vines are located within mostly non-irrigated vineyards with low yields. Anciano’s winery La Vina is the venue where winemaker Jorge Caus Pertegaz crafts this stunning Garnacha. Fermentation is in stainless steel tanks for 7 days at 22 degrees Celsius, and then a portion of the wine is matured in oak barrels for 7 months.
Alcohol:
13.5%
Tasting Notes:
- Color: Bright and intensely vibrant red.
- Nose: Generous fruit aromas of cherry and black berries.
- Palate: Smooth and soft with red currant and black berry flavors produces a long and supple finish with a touch of sweet spice.
Food Pairings:
Sensational with slow cooked pork or lamb and other meats from the grill. Anciano Garnacha can be matched with moderately spiced meals, such as Moroccan tagines (Look this one up!) or excellent with hearty vegetarian dishes and mature cheeses.
Jim Lutfy’s Thoughts:
Spicy grip on the palate with flavors of cedar, pork, and ripe raspberries. Best enjoyed with BBQ dishes and spiced vegetables!