Borsao Bolé 2021

Borsao makes this red in D.O. Campo de Borja in Aragón, a region defined by old Garnacha and a strongly continental climate. Cold, windy winters give way to hot summers carrying Mediterranean influence, and the wide swing between day and night temperatures slows ripening and keeps acidity fresh even as the fruit concentrates behind the 15% alcohol. The blend pairs Garnacha, the grape that built the region, with Syrah for colour and pepper. After fermentation the wine completes malolactic conversion, which turns sharper malic acid into softer lactic acid and rounds the texture, then rests five months in French oak. That short barrel stay adds a light frame of vanilla and spice without covering the fruit. The wine is bright red in the glass. The nose offers ripe cherry and blackberry with a savoury, peppery edge, and the palate is generous and smooth, with supple tannin and a warm, gently spiced finish. It drinks well young. Serve at 16 to 17C. It works with grilled meats, roasted vegetables and hard cheese.