By Dwight Casimere

Aragon is the birthplace of Spanish winemaking. It is the original home of the Grenache grape, called Garnacha in Spain. Its high mountains and varied terrain, from desert-like plains to hundred-year-old vineyards cascading to the Mediterranean Sea, are ground zero for some of the most spectacular wines in all of Europe.

Garnacha grapes are the very identity of Aragonese wine. Thousands of acres of Garnacha grapes are planted across the region, representing 25% of Spain’s total production. Highly versatile, the grapes produce wines that are distinctive for their shimmering color and pronounced aroma.

Perfectly in tune with the Mediterranean climate, Aragonese grapes produce wines with intense fruit flavors and bright acidity. They are perfect with virtually every cuisine on the planet.

Such are the wines of Bodegas Aragonesas and its Aragonia Seleccion Especial (special selection) 2019 Garnacha ($18). A medium-bodied Red Wine, this is the perfect selection for an afternoon lunch of various salads and cold meats and cheeses, followed by a main course of lightly grilled fish or chicken.

First encounters in the glass are like eating a cluster of ripe grapes, allowing the juices to cascade over the tongue. Wild strawberries, sweet raspberries with Blood Oranges lurking in the background along with some dried oregano and rosemary that can be seen growing on the edges of the vineyards, are the signature flavors.

Pastas, Risottos, Asian cuisine and any meat straight from the backyard BBQ, are right at home with Aragonia 2019 Garnacha. Make it your go-to wine for spring!  Drink responsibly. Visit bodegasaragonesas.com for more.