Tag Archives: Grenache

Wine of the Day: Bodegas Nekeas ‘El Chaparral de Vega Sindoa’ 2013 7-14-16

Bodegas Nekeas ‘El Chaparral de Vega Sindoa’, Navarra 2013 750ML ($17.95) Buy Now: $14

Tucked in the rugged northeast corner of Spain lies Navarre. It was and remains a land of pilgrims headed to Santiago, bulls running through Pamplona, and Hemingway. Navarre also produces some of Spain’s most distinctive cooler-climate wines, including some very fine Grenache, a grape that originated in the area. Bodegas Nekeas makes some of the best wines in Navarre, and their 2013 El Chaparral only reinforces their credibility. If these vines could talk… Planted a century ago, this is legitimate old-vine wine. Cool and refreshing on the tongue, with perky acidity, the 2013 envelops the palate with a medium body, and then the old vines kick in: the finish exudes concentrated flavors of blackberry, spice, plum, and raspberry.… Read the rest

Chateau Simone Palette Rose Provence 2014 – April 2016

Chateau Simone Palette 2014Chateau Simone Palette Rose, Provence 2014 750ML ($79.95) Buy Now: $59 special

Importer note “This magical and ancient estate in the hills just south of Aix-en-Provence produces a Rosé from the Palette appellation that is outside of category. It is a wine that belies the notion that rosés are simple wines to be drunk up young. We have indulged ourselves with 10-year old Château Simone Rosé and have marveled at the tenacity, vibrancy and complexity of this very serious wine. Expensive yes … but a special experience. A blend identical to the rouge: 45% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault, 20% Syrah, Castet, Manosquin, Carignan, Muscat Noir & Blanc. The mineral backbone of this wine is augmented by the flavors and bouquets sourced from the magnificent pines that surround this estate.”… Read the rest