Borsao Crianza 2020

Borsao formed in 2001 from the merger of three local cooperatives in Campo de Borja, the Aragón region known as the empire of Garnacha. This Crianza leads with old-vine Garnacha, filled out by Syrah and Tempranillo, from vineyards on the lower slopes of the Moncayo massif. The altitude and the stony, well-drained soils give cool nights that preserve freshness, while the warm, dry growing season ripens Garnacha fully, which is why the wine reaches a generous fifteen per cent in alcohol with ripe, sweet fruit. After fermentation it ages ten months in French and American oak, enough to qualify as crianza and to lend vanilla, toffee and spice while the slow oxygen exchange rounds the tannins. The 2020 is a deep cherry red with ruby and garnet tones. The nose is warm and ripe, with plum and red berries over vanilla, black pepper and liquorice. The palate is full and rich, with soft tannins, a warming core and a spicy, lightly sweet finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It is an easy match for grilled meats and stews.