The 2016 Bodegas Borsao Berola is Spain’s answer to a rich and hearty California Red Blend. A blend of Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, this one has scored 90+ points with three major trade publications.
After tasting it earlier this week, I agree with the hype. If you like wines like the Fiction Red Blend from Paso Robles or any of the Lafage reds from Southern France, you’re gonna’ love this one.
2016 Borsao Berola Red Blend
91 points Wine Spectator, 90 points Wine Enthusiast, 90 points James Suckling
To order, stop by the store or click here to order in our online store.
When it comes to stellar Spanish values, Bodegas Borsao is the leader of the pack. This cooperative was formed in the late 1950’s, and today, the operation has over 5,000 acres under vine. Yep, these folks make a lot of wine, but quality is the name of the game here.
Borsao is based in the mountainous Campo de Borja region of Aragon, in North-Central Spain. It is here that many believe Garnacha (aka Grenache) originated, and the region is home to some of the oldest Grenache vines in the world. Borsao is definitely putting those old vines to good use.
The Berola combines the fleshy and ripe character of old vine Garnacha with the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon and the spicy/savory tones of Syrah. Vine age here averages 35 years, but some of the Garnacha vines are nearly 80 years old. Fermented in stainless steel and aged 14 months in French and American oak, the resulting wine is showing especially well this vintage. Deep in color, this one is big and full yet ripe and open-knit. Big notes of dark berry preserves, mocha, nutmeg, and peppery spice all show up for the party here.
The critics agree with me on this one:
Wine Spectator described it as “thick yet fresh, fruit-centered but with some savory elements for balance. Blackberry, currant, licorice, cocoa and loamy earth flavors mingle over firm, well-integrated tannins, focused by balsamic acidity. In the modern style. Grenache, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2030.”
Wine Enthusiast chimed in too. “Ripe blackberry and black cherry aromas come with Christmas spice, fennel seed and nutmeg accents. This Garnacha-based red blend is big and sappy, as should be expected from Campo de Borja. Mildly woody black fruit flavors are roasted and warm, while this delivers on a spicy finish.”
Sounds pretty good right? Trust me, this cocktail and food friendly red is a lot of wine for the money. I’d love to get into a bottle of this with a big cheeseburger or barbecue plate, but I could totally enjoy it without food too. Totally your call! Cheers to happy drinking and eating in the AVL!
To order, stop by the store or click here to order in our online store.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville