VINEgeek

Old vines…ten bucks…Eric Solomon…you don’t have to twist my arm.  Let’s get into it.

Producer: Altavinum

Grapes: 100% Garnacha

Appellation: Calatayud (D.O.); Northeastern Spain

Vineyards: High altitude vineyards (2400-3000 feet) in the mountainous village of Atea.  Pure slate soils. Old vines “planted up to 100 years ago.”

Aging: tank, no oak

Alcohol: 14.5%

Importer: Eric Solomon

Price: I paid $9.98 at Spec’s in Austin

My Tasting Notes: Deep plummy purple with a bit of fuchsia at the edges that seems common with Grenache.  Unusual nose.  Not a ton of fruit. I mostly pick up a strong maple syrup/antifreeze note.  A little mint and stone.  With more time in the glass I start to pick up raspberry.  In the mouth it is medium-bodied and lively with mashed berry flavors. Maybe a little golden raisin.  Very pure and clean.  Very little tannins, but good minerality and acid provide structure.  Nice, interesting little bottle for ten bucks.  The minerality in this is what makes it a winner for me at this price point.

Grade: B

Free association:

Atea Vineyards