A Cariñena, Spain Garnacha

A Cariñena, Spain Garnacha:
A widely grown, often plebian Spanish red grape...



Wine Reviewed
Castillo de Monseran Garnacha Cariñena DO 2009 12.5% alcohol about $9

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “Tasting Note: Deep ruby color; aromas of ripe black cherry, anise, and a touch of chocolate; medium bodied, medium tannins, and juicy plum, mint, and spice flavors. Serving Suggestion: serve with grilled sausages or burgers.” And now for my review.
Castillo de Monseran Cave Entrance
Castillo de Monseran Cave Entrance in tasting cheap wine

At the first sips this wine offered good balance between tannins and acidity. It was thin and tasted of black cherries. The initial meal started with bean, lentil, and onion soup. In response this Garnacha was refreshingly metallic. With the accompanying Japanese rice crackers it tasted of plums. When it met the meal’s centerpiece of slow cooked beef chocolate was the dominant taste. The wine darkened in response to the side of potatoes cooked with the meat. The other side dish of zucchini, chickpeas, and onions intensified this libation’s chocolate taste. I added Louisiana chili and lime sauce to the meat; the sauce integrated well into the wine.

This review of a Spanish Garnacha (Grenache) wine continues on our website.