2013 Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha
Berliner Wein Trophy ~ Gold (2016)
Tasting Notes
Ruby red color. Aromas of red and black berries and smoky elegant notes. Powerful and fresh.
Corona de Aragon Special Selection Spain refers to the Crown of Aragon, which included the set of territories that were under the power of the King of Aragon, one of the most emblematic reigns of the country.
The grapes of this wine are located in Aguarón, in a vineyard of approximately 500 meters of altitude and vines over 40 years old.
“Grandes Vinos” is practically synonymous with Cariñena and the 2013 Corona de Aragon Special Selection Spain could not be a better illustration of this outstanding grape. Cariñena is a protected designation of origin located in Zaragoza, Spain. This region has a long history and tradition of wine, dating back to the Middle Ages.
The terroir of the appellation Cariñena is ideal for the variety with the same name to prosper; the soils are made up of emblematic and ancient stones, in fact, the wine is also known as “The Wine of the Stones”.
The Cariñena Appellation has an enormous sense of belonging for all the inhabitants of the region, and it is not uncommon to see that the same name of the appellation is the same name of the grape and the wine at the same time. This makes Cariñena the protagonist in every way.
Pair this wine with roasted vegetables, barbecued meats & hunting rices.
Specs
Vintage: 2013
Varietals: 85% Garnacha & 15% Cariñena
Appellation: Cariñena, Zaragoza, Spain
Aging: Cariñena, 5 months in French Oak Barrel; Garnacha, 5 months in 50% French - Oak Barrel and 50% American Oak Barrel
Alcohol: 13.5%
What’s Included
6-bottles:
6x 2013 Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha
Case:
12x 2013 Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha
Grandes Vinos the Legacy of Cariñena and the Cariñena Appellation Leader According to Guía Peñin 2021.
Grandes Vinos is one of the main wineries in the area. The vineyards are composed of more than 11,000 acres around the 14 municipalities of the Appellation. As expected, the queen grape is Cariñena; however, they also have important Garnacha plantations, and grapes like Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Macabeo, Chardonnay, and many others.
Grandes Vinos is made up of more than 700 families of expert winegrowers who are producing excellent wines thanks to the combination of spectacular ancient soils, the perfect climate, modernity and technology within the winery, the dedication and work of its people and above all, the great passion with which they produce their wines, reflected in every glass of wine you taste!
Available States
AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha
6 bottles for $64.99 $10.83/bottle + $1.33/bottle shipping
Case of 12 for $114.99 $9.58/bottle + $1/bottle shipping
How much more are you saving by buying a full case?
(Note: Tax & Shipping not included in savings calculations)
2013 Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha - $15 = 11.53%
My cellar focuses on old wines, mostly old world wines from 60 to 30 years ago, so I tend to use Casemates for everyday drinking wines, and for the wine classes I teach. So I was not expecting to get a wine like this from Casemates.
By Spanish standards, a 2013 isn’t particularly old, and some wines of that vintage are still unreleased. But this wine was released five years ago. Based on the struggle the cork put up, wherever has it been sitting in the interim wasn’t very humid!
But you can never judge a wine by a crumbly cork, and some of the best wines I’ve had have fought the good fight.
As you can see, the wine is extremely dark, especially for a Grenache, with only slight browning at the rim.
As with older wines, I did a pop and pour so as not to miss the early nuances. I was blown away by my first sniff.
The wine has an absolutely gorgeous aroma: mature nose balancing red licorice, minerals, mint, creme brûlée, strawberry ice cream, baking spices such as cinnamon and mace, a bit of earthiness, herbs, vanilla, a slight dill note from American oak…honestly, I could go on and on.
On the palate, the fruit is still singing, with bright sweet strawberry, again red licorice, and a long, chewy, sweet/sour cherry and caramel finish. Tannins are present, but resolved and fully integrated.
It was great with some French cheeses and charcuterie, but this wine is really an event unto itself.
Day 2, from the recorked half bottle, with no attempt to remove the air, the wine is remarkably unchanged, still great. Day 3: well, there won’t be any.
This is a wine at the peak of complexity, yet not one that seems prematurely aged or in danger of rapid decline. Because of its structure, I would have guessed an aged Petite Sirah rather than Grenache. It has the delicacy and nuance of old Burgundy, yet the juicy fruit of Grenache. This wine would be a show-stopper at almost any blind tasting.
If you love old wines, buy this wine and share it with friends to introduce them to the complexities of perfectly aged wines. And then put some away; I’m quite sure it will be just as interesting in five and even ten years from now.
Thanks to Alice for rerouting this to my summer home so I could enjoy it and report back. This is the best wine I’ve tasted from Casemates. The price is crazy. I’m buying, obviously.
@CroutonOllie Yes, young Tempranillo isn’t so much my thing, but I love Garnacha. However this was far beyond my expectations. I was hoping Casemates would hit this under $10 price, as I saw a five-year-old listing at that level, but mostly it’s been going for twice that.
@salcorn
You nudged me over with your review, but it didn’t take much nudging. Was drinking a different kind of wine when I was there, trying to figure it out actually, from a Sherry producer. They were in business since the 1600’s, but are much better known for their Port, especially now.
The owner, patriarch, was still much in charge, but would abruptly blow off anyone who bothered him while he was busy talking to you. A great guy, who has now since passed, who loved talking of his craft, history, and worries over what he perceived the future would bring (was in the Franco days.)
He wasn’t worried about politics, but more the effects of business on his family, and their traditions.
In any event, thanks for the great review, and my best wishes for a great summer.
@salcorn Geez, tough act to follow, can’t hold a candle to the knowledge nor the prose! Can’t believe I’m also sucked in for more red, and in the heat!
/giphy needy-respectful-rice
@irenegade Your arm so susceptible to twisting! If we find others, I’d take 3-6.
One thing, I won’t be around until late on the 8th, which is the earliest projected delivery date. Idk how hard it is to get ups to hold it without destroying it. Could you order? Or should we take our chances?
@mrn1@chipgreen@pjmartin@marikar@lornadoonage Yesterday a case of the Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon arrived here. I have some to split if anyone is interested.
@Boatman72@chipgreen@marikar@mrn1
I got a case too . I think it is spoken for already. Popped one tonight. It’s pretty good. A good deal for sure; shows some age and has good flavors.
@chipgreen@marikar@mrn1@pjmartin I opened one too. It was a little harsh upon opening. I got alcohol and leather. Then I got busy so today I sampled it again and it really changed. Very nice!
@mrn1@chipgreen@marikar pjmartin @lornadoonage I think we are now talking about two offers. Mark’s case of Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha and the Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon that Pete & I received. From what I’m thinking Pete’s case is spoken for.
Mark, about your case…you’re already splitting 5 ways. I’d take 2 also, but instead of splitting 6 ways, I’ll back out so you’ll get end up with more bottles for your heavy lifting. I too have sooooo much wine.
Did anyone want bottles from the case I received of the Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon?
Dark garnet-ruby color; smoke, spice, blackberry, pencil shaving on the nose; cherry, blackberry, plum, raspberry jam, cinnamon on the palate.
Medium-plus body, dusty medium tannin, medium-sharp acidity, some oak—five months in barrel. Garnacha in 50% French and 50% American oak, cariñena in 100% French oak.
This is simply an astonishing, delicious value—an emphatic example of the monster quality-price opportunities in Spanish wines. Garnacha/grenache starts out as one of my favorite varietals, and this delivers superb garnacha with the added bonus of cariñena for depth.
The wine is a product of Grandes Vinos, a consulting company established in 1997 to help manage a range of brands across an arena of tastes and wine niches produced in Spain’s Cariñena designation of origin. Robert Parker wrote: “Grandes Vinos’ collection is replete with stunning values.”
Corona de Aragon Special Selection Garnacha-Cariñena 2013 is delicious wine and a delicious value, an clear statement about value of Spanish wine. Check the price, find the wine. $6-7 10/15/16
@kaolis Interesting that this guy found “medium dusty tannins” in 2016, while the next guy reported no obvious tannins the year before. My theory: the tannins developed over time, thus explaining the price appreciation.
Vinous:
Drinking window: 2016 - 2020
Vivid ruby-red. The lively, perfumed nose offers scents of ripe red and dark berries, vanilla and white pepper. Sweet and seamless on the palate, displaying cherry compote and clove flavors and a touch of allspice. Closes supple and seamless, with lingering vanilla character and no obvious tannins. Josh Raynolds. 10/2015
My last bit of useless information, lifted from the Berliner Wein Trophy award…
Properties:
Alcohol content (%): 13.5
Acidity (g/l): 1.4
Residual sugar (g/l): 3.7
Total sulfur (mg/l): 102
It didn’t take long to fill the wine refrigerator gifted to me. With two different half cases arriving the first week of July, I’ll need to drink a few of my earlier purchases!
/giphy lush-lovely-ox
We were out of town all week and since UPS still refuses to redirect shipments with alcohol (at least around here) I had to chase after it and retrieve from the local Customer Center even though they’d already marked it return to sender.
Point being… will open soon, will have thoughts soon after. Apologies in advance for what will be a brief Rat Report, but I’ll do my best given the circumstances!
Just cracked this open, so taking notes real-time. Popped and poured through the Vinturi into a Bordeaux glass. Color is just as described by @salcorn. I also heeded their cork warning and opened via Ah-So; mine came out in one piece!
Initial aroma is deep and dark to me. Hints of raisin, almost a beefy/meaty note, and a little smokiness that sort of reminds me of a good smoked cheddar.
First sip - wow, this brings a lot to the palate and it really evolves. More medium than full-bodied to my tastebuds. I get that initial sweet flavor, not actual sweetness (it’s very dry) but probably that bright berry right off the bat. Perhaps the tiniest bit of heat as well - but that could also be that I’ve been busy working all day and haven’t had much to eat! The finish is really clean and crisp - I think it would cut nicely after a few bites of cheese or with something that’s got a bit of fat/creaminess.
Really quite nice overall. I’ll report back in a bit after I’ve sampled with some food!
Opted for the typical charcuterie-while-Ratting dinner to best sample with some different things.
Parmesan Reggiano really brings out cherry flavors and the wine balances out nicely.
Bellavitano cheese is much creamier and the acidity cuts right through as expected but the flavors don’t meld; the finish goes a bit too sour for my liking.
Going in a totally different direction, I sliced up some Scorpion Pepper Salame that packs plenty of heat. I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect with this pairing and the heat from the meat understandably overpowers many flavors, but I do again pick up a bit of berry that finishes bright and balanced.
After a couple wheat crackers to cool off, I took a few bites of Korean BBQ Pork jerky to have a go at a sweeter, saltier pairing. This brought out some deeper flavors, including a mildly metallic note at the outset. Second sip brought more nuance and balance and finished with that acidity I mentioned earlier.
I’d love to sample this with some actual BBQ or a smoky cheddar, but the Parmesan is the clear pairing winner of what I’ve had so far.
This actually isn’t screaming food wine to me. No doubt it holds up well in certain situations but I’ve really enjoyed it - and picked up on many more facets - solo.
In the interest of accurately describing my own preferences…
We’ve long been Wellington lovers (how we miss you, Peter!) and also enjoy the old-world styles that Scott’s known for. Noceto is right in our sweet spot; we’ve been club members for years and love not only their Sangiovese but also the Barberas and Old Vine Zins. In general, I’m a big Zin fan. On the white side, we tend to love less oak in our Chards and bright crisp flavors in general - some of the best we’ve ever had were in New Zealand and Melbourne.
Some most excellent rattage today! Plus, this is right up our alley and we haven’t ordered a case since yesterday. I have no idea where this case will go… maybe under the air hockey table, ugh!
@bunnymasseuse@dirtdoctor@rjquillin@Winedavid49 UPS notified me yesterday of a delivery for today (along with my Scott Harvey shipment). Had both redirected to a UPS store where I will retrieve them next Tuesday.
@bunnymasseuse@dirtdoctor@Mark_L@rjquillin@Winedavid49 Ditto. Awkward because I didn’t have time to throw out the case I had emptied to make room for this one before the delivery arrived, and SWMBO thought I was over my limit.
@bunnymasseuse@DavePolaschek37@dirtdoctor@Mark_L@rjquillin@Winedavid49 Same. I got the Casemates shipping and delivery notices today for the wine that was delivered yesterday. But I’m not complaining! I hadn’t been getting any Casemates notices recently, just the ones from UPS, so perhaps this bodes well for getting them going forward. Not that I should be buying any more wine.
I got my case midweek and wanted to try it but held back and let it rest until Sunday night. I noticed some mold on top of the cork but was careful and the cork held together with no more signs of mold inside. I don’t think it is dry cork as mentioned but some moisture inside the foil that eventually evaporated.
On opening the wine was quite dense in every way-dark color and lots of strong flavors competing against each other.
After an hour in my glass, of very light sipping, it came together as a very good quality wine.
I almost didn’t buy for the low regular retail price comparison and the question on the cork.
After finishing my glass I poured enough for a sip and it seemed so harsh compared to what I had last been drinking…
I will know to decant for an hour next time and it will drink like a $30+ wine.
I’ve really been enjoying this wine chilled - alone and with foods on the lighter fare side. I had one cork with a moldy top but the wine was fine. My friend brought a bottle from his case and it was spoiled, but his cork looked normal. I’m wondering if his got too hot at some point? Anyway, thank you, Casemates, for exposing me to new grape! Cheers!
I think this is the second bottle of six that we’ve opened. First one was meh, thought maybe it had a rough journey. Today opened another and it tastes like a bottle that has sat on the counter for several days. I’m guessing I’ll use the rest for beef stew over the winter. I love granache but this was unfortunately a big fail. Oh well. The only fail I’ve had from Casemates to date.
Popped one tonight with a lasagna soup my sweetie makes. Quite tasty, and I’m glad I bought it. Half-wish I’d bought a whole case rather than a half, but I still haven’t found anyone else in Santa Fe who’s willing to split, and this tastes like it’s not going to last forever. Or I may have found someone who’ll split, but “we don’t drink Grenache.” Well, then!
Wow- just had my 4th bottle, and SWMBO and I love this wine. Once again, wishing we’d gone for the case. Nice to get out of California occasionally @WineDavid, I hope you’re listening… more like this please!
@drgonzo99@Winedavid49 I so enjoyed this wine, but I just found out the one I gave my brother a few months ago was compromised. He said there was mold on the top of the cork, and the cork felt soft. The wine was oxidized, though he could still smell the fruit. A sad day all around.
2013 Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha
Berliner Wein Trophy ~ Gold (2016)
Tasting Notes
Specs
What’s Included
6-bottles:
Case:
Price Comparison
Not for sale online, $180/case MSRP
About The Winery
Available States
AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
Estimated Delivery
Tuesday, Jul 6 - Friday, Jul 9
Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha
6 bottles for $64.99 $10.83/bottle + $1.33/bottle shipping
Case of 12 for $114.99 $9.58/bottle + $1/bottle shipping
2013 Corona de Aragón Special Selection
How much more are you saving by buying a full case?
(Note: Tax & Shipping not included in savings calculations)
2013 Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha - $15 = 11.53%
My cellar focuses on old wines, mostly old world wines from 60 to 30 years ago, so I tend to use Casemates for everyday drinking wines, and for the wine classes I teach. So I was not expecting to get a wine like this from Casemates.
By Spanish standards, a 2013 isn’t particularly old, and some wines of that vintage are still unreleased. But this wine was released five years ago. Based on the struggle the cork put up, wherever has it been sitting in the interim wasn’t very humid!
But you can never judge a wine by a crumbly cork, and some of the best wines I’ve had have fought the good fight.
As you can see, the wine is extremely dark, especially for a Grenache, with only slight browning at the rim.
As with older wines, I did a pop and pour so as not to miss the early nuances. I was blown away by my first sniff.
The wine has an absolutely gorgeous aroma: mature nose balancing red licorice, minerals, mint, creme brûlée, strawberry ice cream, baking spices such as cinnamon and mace, a bit of earthiness, herbs, vanilla, a slight dill note from American oak…honestly, I could go on and on.
On the palate, the fruit is still singing, with bright sweet strawberry, again red licorice, and a long, chewy, sweet/sour cherry and caramel finish. Tannins are present, but resolved and fully integrated.
It was great with some French cheeses and charcuterie, but this wine is really an event unto itself.
Day 2, from the recorked half bottle, with no attempt to remove the air, the wine is remarkably unchanged, still great. Day 3: well, there won’t be any.
This is a wine at the peak of complexity, yet not one that seems prematurely aged or in danger of rapid decline. Because of its structure, I would have guessed an aged Petite Sirah rather than Grenache. It has the delicacy and nuance of old Burgundy, yet the juicy fruit of Grenache. This wine would be a show-stopper at almost any blind tasting.
If you love old wines, buy this wine and share it with friends to introduce them to the complexities of perfectly aged wines. And then put some away; I’m quite sure it will be just as interesting in five and even ten years from now.
Thanks to Alice for rerouting this to my summer home so I could enjoy it and report back. This is the best wine I’ve tasted from Casemates. The price is crazy. I’m buying, obviously.
@salcorn
Enjoyed your write up, and was even about to break a personal rule, to make a purchase, but didn’t have to; the price is great!
Seems like a good deal to me, and have a thing for Spanish wines, ever since I blew a couple of days having fun with people at another winery there.
Thanks for the ‘rat’, and enjoy!
@salcorn thanks for the detailed write up!
@salcorn Literally bought a case just off the review didn’t need to know anything else. Much appreciated and I’m looking forward to it, thanks!
@CroutonOllie Yes, young Tempranillo isn’t so much my thing, but I love Garnacha. However this was far beyond my expectations. I was hoping Casemates would hit this under $10 price, as I saw a five-year-old listing at that level, but mostly it’s been going for twice that.
@raj810 Assuming bottle consistently, you won’t be disappointed!
@salcorn
You nudged me over with your review, but it didn’t take much nudging. Was drinking a different kind of wine when I was there, trying to figure it out actually, from a Sherry producer. They were in business since the 1600’s, but are much better known for their Port, especially now.
The owner, patriarch, was still much in charge, but would abruptly blow off anyone who bothered him while he was busy talking to you. A great guy, who has now since passed, who loved talking of his craft, history, and worries over what he perceived the future would bring (was in the Franco days.)
He wasn’t worried about politics, but more the effects of business on his family, and their traditions.
In any event, thanks for the great review, and my best wishes for a great summer.
@salcorn Thank you for the informative rattage.
@salcorn If I were allowed to buy right now I’d be in. Rare to get such an excellent review, especially from an experienced palate.
@klezman LOL! Maybe you can beg for special dispensation!
@salcorn Geez, tough act to follow, can’t hold a candle to the knowledge nor the prose! Can’t believe I’m also sucked in for more red, and in the heat!
/giphy needy-respectful-rice
@salcorn Been a long time since I have purchased two cases - thanks for the rattage!
@woopdedoo Me too!
@salcorn Special dispensation doesn’t create additional physical space in which to put said wine…
@rjquillin want to split a case?
@michaelvella
Already (unevenly) splitting, but could turn loose of three if that would suffice.
@rjquillin Sure, that works if you have enough to do so. Thank you.
@michaelvella Done, three.
@rjquillin Let me know when they show up and how much for PayPal. Thanks again.
@michaelvella
Arrived, without prior notice…
$10.35/btl
@rjquillin PP sent. I don’t know if I’ll be able to shoot up there today, but Tuesday for sure.
@michaelvella Should be here, text/call first…
You had me at Spanish Grenache!!!
/giphy voluntary-galvanic-cheetah
Intriguing! Any of the NYC regulars interested in splitting a sixer with me?
@InFrom okay twist my arm! If more jump in, maybe a case?
@irenegade Your arm so susceptible to twisting! If we find others, I’d take 3-6.
One thing, I won’t be around until late on the 8th, which is the earliest projected delivery date. Idk how hard it is to get ups to hold it without destroying it. Could you order? Or should we take our chances?
@irenegade So, whaddya say? It’s getting close to the witching hour. Maybe we should go ahead and order the sixpack.
@irenegade
/giphy energetic-scary-marmot
Wow, sounds like a gem! But wtf is “hunting rice”
@CruelMelody PDX split? I’m in for 3-6 if someone else can buy. Gonna be Alaska for the next few weeks.
@CruelMelody hunting rices…maybe a clue here:
https://www.eatyourbooks.com/library/recipes/882199/hunters-rice-with-rabbit-and
@CruelMelody @kaolis So Paella, but with wabbit?
@CruelMelody @InFrom @kaolis
@mkenny2307 I’m gonna sit this one out - based on the weather this weekend I’m only buying white wines and reds I can chill. Glad you’re escaping
/giphy accessible-sharp-meerkat
/giphy ponderous-plausible-powder
I’m in! With rattage like that who can resist?
I don’t need any more wine! In for 6.
/giphy cramped-appealing-cooler
(a particularly appropriate order name!)
Pairs well with cut fruit, brandy and Ron Zacapa
@chipgreen @pjmartin @marikar @lornadoonage @boatman72 Based on the review and the sub-$10 price I couldn’t resist, so there’s a case headed my way. Any of your culprits want a few?
@mrn1 I’m sick, so yes I want in on this one.
@mrn1 @pjmartin
Me too
@mrn1 I’d like some. Whatever works for everyone.
@mrn1 @chipgreen @pjmartin @marikar @lornadoonage Yesterday a case of the Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon arrived here. I have some to split if anyone is interested.
@Boatman72 @chipgreen @marikar @mrn1
I got a case too . I think it is spoken for already. Popped one tonight. It’s pretty good. A good deal for sure; shows some age and has good flavors.
@chipgreen @marikar @mrn1 @pjmartin I opened one too. It was a little harsh upon opening. I got alcohol and leather. Then I got busy so today I sampled it again and it really changed. Very nice!
@mrn1 @chipgreen @marikar pjmartin @lornadoonage I think we are now talking about two offers. Mark’s case of Corona de Aragón Special Selection Cariñena Garnacha and the Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon that Pete & I received. From what I’m thinking Pete’s case is spoken for.
Mark, about your case…you’re already splitting 5 ways. I’d take 2 also, but instead of splitting 6 ways, I’ll back out so you’ll get end up with more bottles for your heavy lifting. I too have sooooo much wine.
Did anyone want bottles from the case I received of the Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon?
Cariñena = Carignan. Had to look that up. Had to look up Ron Zacapa too. Learning all sorts of stuff already this morning.
From Gus Clemens (who?)…
Dark garnet-ruby color; smoke, spice, blackberry, pencil shaving on the nose; cherry, blackberry, plum, raspberry jam, cinnamon on the palate.
Medium-plus body, dusty medium tannin, medium-sharp acidity, some oak—five months in barrel. Garnacha in 50% French and 50% American oak, cariñena in 100% French oak.
This is simply an astonishing, delicious value—an emphatic example of the monster quality-price opportunities in Spanish wines. Garnacha/grenache starts out as one of my favorite varietals, and this delivers superb garnacha with the added bonus of cariñena for depth.
The wine is a product of Grandes Vinos, a consulting company established in 1997 to help manage a range of brands across an arena of tastes and wine niches produced in Spain’s Cariñena designation of origin. Robert Parker wrote: “Grandes Vinos’ collection is replete with stunning values.”
Corona de Aragon Special Selection Garnacha-Cariñena 2013 is delicious wine and a delicious value, an clear statement about value of Spanish wine. Check the price, find the wine. $6-7 10/15/16
https://www.gusclemensonwine.com/corona-de-aragon-special-selection-garnacha-carinena-2013/
fwiw
@kaolis Interesting that this guy found “medium dusty tannins” in 2016, while the next guy reported no obvious tannins the year before. My theory: the tannins developed over time, thus explaining the price appreciation.
@kaolis Gus in the tub from the w.w days?
Vinous:
Drinking window: 2016 - 2020
Vivid ruby-red. The lively, perfumed nose offers scents of ripe red and dark berries, vanilla and white pepper. Sweet and seamless on the palate, displaying cherry compote and clove flavors and a touch of allspice. Closes supple and seamless, with lingering vanilla character and no obvious tannins. Josh Raynolds. 10/2015
In for half a case:
/giphy wilted-fluid-wealth
My last bit of useless information, lifted from the Berliner Wein Trophy award…
Properties:
Alcohol content (%): 13.5
Acidity (g/l): 1.4
Residual sugar (g/l): 3.7
Total sulfur (mg/l): 102
My wife is going to be a tad angry at me.
/giphy balmy-neanderthal-bagel
Any DMV folks want to split? I’d be in for a case except I’ll be on vacation during the delivery window…
@cduan how much you wanna split? Let me know….
@cduan split in half-ppening
/giphy suppressed-troublesome-division
@bunnymasseuse @cduan I grabbed a case- if you guys want to split 3 ways
/giphy listless-original-railway
/giphy sexy-galvanic-parakeet
It didn’t take long to fill the wine refrigerator gifted to me. With two different half cases arriving the first week of July, I’ll need to drink a few of my earlier purchases!
/giphy lush-lovely-ox
We were out of town all week and since UPS still refuses to redirect shipments with alcohol (at least around here) I had to chase after it and retrieve from the local Customer Center even though they’d already marked it return to sender.
Point being… will open soon, will have thoughts soon after. Apologies in advance for what will be a brief Rat Report, but I’ll do my best given the circumstances!
Just cracked this open, so taking notes real-time. Popped and poured through the Vinturi into a Bordeaux glass. Color is just as described by @salcorn. I also heeded their cork warning and opened via Ah-So; mine came out in one piece!
Initial aroma is deep and dark to me. Hints of raisin, almost a beefy/meaty note, and a little smokiness that sort of reminds me of a good smoked cheddar.
First sip - wow, this brings a lot to the palate and it really evolves. More medium than full-bodied to my tastebuds. I get that initial sweet flavor, not actual sweetness (it’s very dry) but probably that bright berry right off the bat. Perhaps the tiniest bit of heat as well - but that could also be that I’ve been busy working all day and haven’t had much to eat!
The finish is really clean and crisp - I think it would cut nicely after a few bites of cheese or with something that’s got a bit of fat/creaminess.
Really quite nice overall. I’ll report back in a bit after I’ve sampled with some food!
Opted for the typical charcuterie-while-Ratting dinner to best sample with some different things.
Parmesan Reggiano really brings out cherry flavors and the wine balances out nicely.
Bellavitano cheese is much creamier and the acidity cuts right through as expected but the flavors don’t meld; the finish goes a bit too sour for my liking.
Going in a totally different direction, I sliced up some Scorpion Pepper Salame that packs plenty of heat. I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect with this pairing and the heat from the meat understandably overpowers many flavors, but I do again pick up a bit of berry that finishes bright and balanced.
After a couple wheat crackers to cool off, I took a few bites of Korean BBQ Pork jerky to have a go at a sweeter, saltier pairing. This brought out some deeper flavors, including a mildly metallic note at the outset. Second sip brought more nuance and balance and finished with that acidity I mentioned earlier.
I’d love to sample this with some actual BBQ or a smoky cheddar, but the Parmesan is the clear pairing winner of what I’ve had so far.
This actually isn’t screaming food wine to me. No doubt it holds up well in certain situations but I’ve really enjoyed it - and picked up on many more facets - solo.
In the interest of accurately describing my own preferences…
We’ve long been Wellington lovers (how we miss you, Peter!) and also enjoy the old-world styles that Scott’s known for. Noceto is right in our sweet spot; we’ve been club members for years and love not only their Sangiovese but also the Barberas and Old Vine Zins. In general, I’m a big Zin fan. On the white side, we tend to love less oak in our Chards and bright crisp flavors in general - some of the best we’ve ever had were in New Zealand and Melbourne.
/giphy positive-deaf-screw
I’m in! What is hunting rice?
Some most excellent rattage today! Plus, this is right up our alley and we haven’t ordered a case since yesterday. I have no idea where this case will go… maybe under the air hockey table, ugh!
/giphy numberless-scrawny-scrooge
@benguin986
Ha!
/giphy teeny-interesting-crawdad
Came back for a second order.
/giphy exciting-yielding-warlord
/giphy trivial-little-locket
UPS showed up today and delivered these today about a week early. I didn’t even receive a shipping notification.
@dirtdoctor @winedavid49
Same here…
@dirtdoctor @rjquillin @Winedavid49 same here… mine still says pending…
@bunnymasseuse @dirtdoctor @rjquillin @Winedavid49 UPS notified me yesterday of a delivery for today (along with my Scott Harvey shipment). Had both redirected to a UPS store where I will retrieve them next Tuesday.
@bunnymasseuse @dirtdoctor @Mark_L @rjquillin @Winedavid49 Ditto. Awkward because I didn’t have time to throw out the case I had emptied to make room for this one before the delivery arrived, and SWMBO thought I was over my limit.
@bunnymasseuse @DavePolaschek37 @dirtdoctor @rjquillin @Winedavid49 I am overjoyed to get a shipping notice for this wine (that was delivered yesterday)! Does that mean I have another 6 bottles on the way (plus another case of Scott Harvey)?
@bunnymasseuse @DavePolaschek37 @dirtdoctor @Mark_L @rjquillin @Winedavid49 Same. I got the Casemates shipping and delivery notices today for the wine that was delivered yesterday. But I’m not complaining! I hadn’t been getting any Casemates notices recently, just the ones from UPS, so perhaps this bodes well for getting them going forward. Not that I should be buying any more wine.
@dirtdoctor
Same thing here, trying it right now, and am quite pleased, especially given the price point.
Had faith in the review, it didn’t let me down, and is much different from most Grenache I’ve had; a bit more to it than most.
All that remains to be seen, is if the neighborhood has run out of fireworks after last night!
I got my case midweek and wanted to try it but held back and let it rest until Sunday night. I noticed some mold on top of the cork but was careful and the cork held together with no more signs of mold inside. I don’t think it is dry cork as mentioned but some moisture inside the foil that eventually evaporated.
On opening the wine was quite dense in every way-dark color and lots of strong flavors competing against each other.
After an hour in my glass, of very light sipping, it came together as a very good quality wine.
I almost didn’t buy for the low regular retail price comparison and the question on the cork.
After finishing my glass I poured enough for a sip and it seemed so harsh compared to what I had last been drinking…
I will know to decant for an hour next time and it will drink like a $30+ wine.
A great buy.
Mine has disappeared, and become an asked for beverage, even over those I have put back.
A great drinker, needs no special care or consideration, and is just received well; another great choice Casemates made.
I tried the first bottle with some roasted broccoli and chickpeas with a little greek yogurt on the side. It was delicious.
Happy to have 5 more waiting in the wings and to learn how better to describe the wine to others.
I’ve really been enjoying this wine chilled - alone and with foods on the lighter fare side. I had one cork with a moldy top but the wine was fine. My friend brought a bottle from his case and it was spoiled, but his cork looked normal. I’m wondering if his got too hot at some point? Anyway, thank you, Casemates, for exposing me to new grape! Cheers!
@DebRVA I’ve had a few with moldy looking tips that have ended up ok
I think this is the second bottle of six that we’ve opened. First one was meh, thought maybe it had a rough journey. Today opened another and it tastes like a bottle that has sat on the counter for several days. I’m guessing I’ll use the rest for beef stew over the winter. I love granache but this was unfortunately a big fail. Oh well. The only fail I’ve had from Casemates to date.
Popped one tonight with a lasagna soup my sweetie makes. Quite tasty, and I’m glad I bought it. Half-wish I’d bought a whole case rather than a half, but I still haven’t found anyone else in Santa Fe who’s willing to split, and this tastes like it’s not going to last forever. Or I may have found someone who’ll split, but “we don’t drink Grenache.” Well, then!
Wow- just had my 4th bottle, and SWMBO and I love this wine. Once again, wishing we’d gone for the case. Nice to get out of California occasionally
@WineDavid, I hope you’re listening… more like this please!
@drgonzo99 You inspired me to crack my first one open tonight – thanks!
@drgonzo99 Noted!
@drgonzo99 @Winedavid49 I so enjoyed this wine, but I just found out the one I gave my brother a few months ago was compromised. He said there was mold on the top of the cork, and the cork felt soft. The wine was oxidized, though he could still smell the fruit. A sad day all around.