Description

Casa Balaguer 2019 El Vivero Garnacha
Garnacha Peluda, Rojal, Arco, Valencí Negre, Tortosina, Saperavi | Alc: 14.5%
Valencia, Alicante, Spain

Winemaker’s notes:
Casa Balaguer 2019 El Vivero Garnacha is produced in ALICANTE DOP by using traditional production techniques; made in clay amphorae with minimal human intervention. El Vivero de Usaldón, is produced with Garnacha grapes planted in the Finca Casa Balaguer (Villena town). The indigenous varieties (Garnacha Peluda, Rojal and Arco) are maintained thanks to the harvesting of plant material from centuries-old vineyards of Finca Usaldón, before they were uprooted to plant Almonds. Indigenous yeasts are used, and insecticides, herbicides and fertilizers are avoided in favor of biodynamic practices. All of the plants are nurtured using organic compost fertilizer and environmentally friendly practices. Organic farming duly certified.

Intense purple color. Aromas of red fruits appear on the nose and black, even some floral notes. It has balsamic, esparto and dry leaf nuances as well as clay and clay notes own the amphorae. In the mouth the wine is fruity, lively, cheerful and with a balanced acidity. It is a red wine with texture, half body and a medium drink finish.

Pairs well with rice, pasta, light dishes, Tapas, Manchego Cheese, Ibérico Ham.

Critical Acclaim:
“Despite what the label of 2019 El Vivero says, it’s not pure Garnacha, but that’s what’s in the register for a plot in a six-year-old vineyard in Finca Casa Balaguer that was planted with old material from Usaldón consisting of Garnacha Peluda, Rojal, Arco, Valencí Negre, Tortosina and even Saperavi from Georgia! The wine fermented in tinaja with 30% full clusters and indigenous yeasts and then matured in those tinajas after being pressed. It’s a very interesting Mediterranean blend with primary and herbal aromas, some rusticity and slightly dusty tannins, full of character and personality. It has a medium body and some dusty tannins and finishes dry. As with all the rest, it’s clean and balanced and you don’t feel any heat. 3,000 bottles were filled unfined, unfiltered and without any added sulfur in February 2020.” 92 pts – Wine Advocate

Winery

Tipsy Knitter Wines – Your Seattle based, online wine shop