Vino Español Bender I: 2005 Bodegas Nekeas “El Chaparral de Vega Sindoa” Old Vines Grenache

I have wanted to recommend one of these from the largely dependable Bodegas Nekeas people for some time now, given that for a relatively inexpensive wine ($8.99), it nicely conveys the potential for utter sumptuousness possible in this varietal. Long a stronghold of Grenache, this wine is produced in Navarra, the Basque territory (former kingdom) sandwiched closely between Logroño’s Rioja country to the southwest and the Pyrenees directly to the northeast. The term “chaparral”, etymologically derived from the Basque “txaparro”, refers to special oak groves situated around the concentrated area of at least 60-yeard old vines from which this Grenache is made. While one would have expected these factors to toughen the varietal’s peppery predisposition, this wine reprises the notion of never underestimating the winemaker’s knowledge of their land. The end-result consists of a refined Grenache that can easily compete with examples on higher price platforms, thus making it a perfect intelligent value to accompany grilled meats or lamb chops.

Tasting notes:

Ruby with soft lilac fringes show through in the glass. Fragrant strawberry, raspberry, dark fruit and soft pepper spice notes round out the nose. Complexity is a true find at less than $10, with this elegant Grenache displaying a velvety texture and balance of raspberry, plum sweetness that contrasts red berry acidity perfectly. The finish is lovely, with concentrated hints of strawberry preserves, dark fruit and smoky black pepper.