Red Blend, 2018. Care

Care was the name the Romans used to refer to the city of Carinena in Northeastern Spain, between Madrid and Barcelona. The name Carinena literally translates to "the dear plain" in Spanish, a translation that winemaker Cacho Lazaro takes quite seriously. The winery was founded in 2000 and now covers four separate vineyards totaling 350 acres. All their wines come from their estate vineyards, which is mostly planted to Garnacha, one of the classic grapes of Spain.

This is a warm and dry climate similar to most of Spain, which accounts for a rather surprising statistic. Spain has more acres of vineyards than any other country on Earth. However, it is 3rd in production behind France and Italy. This is due to the fact that the arid climate and lack of rain causes the berries on the vine to be smaller, yet more intense. It all works for the good of the wine. Although their focus is on Garnacha, our selection is a blend of 75% Garnacha and 25% Syrah. The vineyards are nearly one half mile above sea level, which causes the grapes to mature very slowly on the vine and just adds to the intensity of the wine.

All those conditions are in full evidence here. The intense, opaque color signals what is to follow. That intro is evident in the stark aromas of blackberry jam seasoned with violets and plum. They coalesce on the palate to an enticing amalgam of extracts that would do a great service to roast pork seasoned with garlic and rosemary.

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