Cool Weather Garnacha from Bodegas Paniza

Bodegas Paniza is located in the designated region of Carinena DO in the Zaragoza province in northern Spain, situated south of the River Ebro. The town gets its name from the Cariñena grape variety (a.k.a. Carignan), which once dominated the local vineyards. Winemaking dates back to the Roman times in this region. The region sits in the Ebro Valley with vast plains, high altitudes ranging from 400-800 meters. The soils are granite (very rocky) which is why locally the wines are knows as el vino de las piedras. The region's climate is continental with extreme seasonal and daily temperature variations with cool moderating winds the Cierzo. There are big diurnal temperature shifts which creates intensity and depth in their wines.

Bodegas Paniza Vinas Viejas Carinena 2012 is produced old vines up to 100 year old. The slate soils, high 800 meterts altitude and 6 months of oak aging all contribute to an intense and impressive wine. It is a deep ruby color. It has aromas of blackberry, cranberry, mulberry, graphite and cloves. It has a medium-full body, fine-grained tannins and medium acidity. It has flavors of blackberry, cherry, mulberry, graphite, rose, savory herbs, cloves, earth, wood.

Impressive wine, good value. Pair with roast beef, moroccan lamb kebabs, grilled sausages, mushroom sage pasta or lentil vegetable stew.