2022 Melea Organic Tempranillo
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Background
The creation of Melea Organic was a labour of love for us all. William Long spent years searching for the right winery to supply the organic, vegan-certified and wild-fermented wines, his son Freddie handled the launch and the label features an original bee motif created by his wife, artist Barbara Long, from recycled threads.
Named after a rare species of bee, everything about the range is created with sustainability in mind, from the lightweight bottles to the stone paper labels, made from a by-product of the quarrying process using a lot less water than normal paper. Melea was also the first Spanish wine brand to become a member of 1% for the Planet. Melea has donated thousands of dollars to bee conservation charities since its launch in 2020. Melea Organic also has an Instagram page to share information on the brand’s sustainable values.
The Vineyards
Fruit comes from organically certified, bush-trained, dry-farmed vines in the Cuenca area of La Mancha. The vineyards were planted in 1999 and are at an altitude of 660m with sandy-clay soils, low in organic matter and high in chalk and limestone. This suppresses yields to just 3-4kg per plant, giving greater quality grapes and red wines with the structure to age well. The extreme continental climate means there is a high diurnal temperature range conserving freshness and increasing aromatic intensity. The lack of rainfall reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
Production
Fermented with native yeasts, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation in tank. Fined using vegan-friendly pea protein.
Producer
The family winery is located in Alicante and is a leader in the production of high-quality, organic wines. They are IFS-certified and produce wines with organic and vegan certification.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
13.5% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Features | Vegan, Vegetarian & Organic |
Food Matches | Simple Tapas dishes including olives, Manchego cheese and sundried tomatoes. |
Origin | Alicante |
Appellation | VdiT Castilla |
2022 Melea Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Background
The creation of Melea Organic was a labour of love for us all. William Long spent years searching for the right winery to supply the organic, vegan-certified and wild-fermented wines, his son Freddie handled the launch and the label features an original bee motif created by his wife, artist Barbara Long, from recycled threads.
Named after a rare species of bee, everything about the range is created with sustainability in mind, from the lightweight bottles to the stone paper labels, made from a by-product of the quarrying process using a lot less water than normal paper. Melea was also the first Spanish wine brand to become a member of 1% for the Planet. Melea has donated thousands of dollars to bee conservation charities since its launch in 2020. Melea Organic also has an Instagram page to share information on the brand’s sustainable values.
The Vineyards
Fruit comes from organically certified, traditionally managed, dry-farmed vines in the Cuenca area of La Mancha. The vineyards were planted in 1999 and are at an altitude of 660m with sandy-clay soils, low in organic matter and high in chalk and limestone. This suppresses yields to just 3kg per plant, giving greater quality grapes. The extreme continental climate means there is a high diurnal temperature range conserving acidity and increasing aromatic intensity. The lack of rainfall reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
Production
Grapes were harvested after the second half of September, later than average to ensure full ripeness. Wild yeast fermented at a controlled temperature of 15ºC with clean musts. Fined with vegan-friendly pea protein.
Producer
The family winery is located in Alicante and is a leader in the production of high-quality, organic wines. They are IFS certified and produce wines with organic and vegan certification.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 90% Verdejo, 10% Sauvignon Blanc |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
12% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | White Wine |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Features | Vegan, Vegetarian & Organic |
Food Matches | Enjoy this wine chilled, on its own, or create a symphony by pairing it with light dishes such as shellfish, poultry or salads. |
Origin | Alicante |
Appellation | VdiT Castilla |
2022 Vega Piedra Rioja Tempranillo Tinto
Regular price £8.45 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
Approachable, unoaked, young Rioja
Nose
On the nose, a young Rioja with lifted red berry fruit and hints of spice.
Palate
Bright red fruit with smooth tannins and a fresh finish
Production
The Tempranillo grapes are harvested in early October from vineyards in Rioja Alta. Vines on average 10-20 years old and the wine is unoaked.
Producer
Spanish wine has always played an important part in the Boutinot portfolio. We represent over 50 wineries that provide wines of great quality, value and interest from all corners of the country. For over 15 years we’ve worked in partnership with a handful of these wineries on ‘own label’ projects, combining their expertise and our passion for Spanish wines to bring our customers honest and eminently drinkable wines which we believe offer good value for money.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
13% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Dietary Information | Vegetarian. Vegan |
Food Matches | Drink with lamb kebabs, grilled chicken, stuffed peppers. |
Appellation | D.O.Ca. Rioja |
2018 Rioja Ontanon Crianza (375ml Half Bottle)
Regular price £7.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Ontañón's Crianza is a benchmark for this style of red - richly fruited, warm oak spice, fresh balancing acidity and smooth tannins.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Ripe aromas of black fruit with warm wood spice.
Palate
Cherry and plum fruit on the palate with fresh acidity and smooth balancing tannins. Classic, approachable and satisfying.
History
Produced from 40-year-old vines grown on the slopes of the Sierra Yergas, just south of the River Ebro in Rioja Baja. The wine is produced predominantly from Tempranillo grown in the La Montesa vineyard, blended with 10% Garnacha from Siete Caminos to add aroma and body. Following a long maceration period, the wine spends 12 months in 60% American and 40% French oak barrels (both used and new). This is followed by a further 12 months in bottle prior to release.
Specifications
Year | 2018 |
Bottle Size | 375ml |
Cultivar | Tempranillo 90%, Garnacha 10% |
Country | Rioja Spain |
Alcohol content | 14% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle
|
5.25 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Matches | Roast Chicken, Pork and Game |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin | Rioja Baja |
2021 Artesa Organic Rioja
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
Appealing black fruit aromas and hints of sweet spice lead to juicy plum, raspberry and liquorice characters on the palate. The finish is elegant and poised with ripe tannins.
Nose
On the nose, one finds really enticing sweet cherry fruit, with dry, fine tannins.
Palate
The palate is complex with juicy bramble fruit, black pepper, and lifted, savoury characters. There is a good amount of fruit-driven intensity with a vibrant, complex, spicy palate, and the oak provides some sweetness and a lick of vanilla and cream soda. An archetypal young rioja, just brilliant!
Estate
This large, family-owned estate draws from 800 hectares of elevated hillside vineyards in some of the best zones of Rioja Baja. Thanks to a combination of the high quality of the grapes from these vineyards and modern vinification cellars, the young, unoaked wines are fresh and vibrant with good richness of fruit for wines at this level.
200 hectares of estate vineyards near Alfaro provide the basis of the Artesa range and the best of these, at high altitude (500 to 600 metre), with mature vines and poor, stony soils, have been converted to organic production. Fermented in stainless steel, and matured for 6 months in new American oak barrels, the wine produces fresh redcurrant and cherry aromas together with woody, herbal notes.
Specifications
Year | 2021 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 13% alc vol |
Units of alcohol per bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Dietary Information | Organic |
Food Matches | Drink with casseroles, red meat or manchego cheese or if you’re feeling adventurous, chargrilled mackerel! Also great with pasta, rice and veggie dishes. |
Appellation | D.O.Ca. Rioja |
2023 El Ninot de Paper Rosado
Regular price £8.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Appealing, bright and juicy rosado from Valencia.
Tasting Notes
Nose
An appealing dry rosé with fresh red fruit aromas.
Palate
The palate has raspberry and redcurrant characters, with hints of citrus and a long and fruity finish.
Production
Produced from a selection of Bobal grapes, which after harvesting undergo a gentle pressing, and short maceration on skins to give a delicate pink colour. The free-run juice is fermented in stainless steel for 20 - 25 days at a controlled temperature of 14ºC, using selected yeasts.
Specifications
Year | 2023 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Bobal |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
11% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 8.36 units |
Type | Rosé |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
Great with tapas, risotto or charcuterie.
|
Origin | Valencia |
Appellation | DOP Valencia |
2022 El Ninot de Paper Blanco
Regular price £8.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Zesty, light-bodied Spanish white - with an eye-catching label and name inspired by the 'paper dolls' of the Las Falles de Valencia festival.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Lightly floral, citrus aromas.
Palate
The palate is gently fruity with citrus and green apple characters, and fresh acidity on the finish.
Production
Grapes are sourced from Murviedro's 300 hectares of vineyard, and a further 1500 that they control in the surrounding area. Produced predominantly from Viura grapes, blended with Sauvignon Blanc. The wine undergoes temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 70% Viura, 30% Sauvignon Blanc |
Country | Spain |
|
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 8.36 units |
Type | White Blend |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
|
Origin | Valencia |
Appellation | DOP Valencia |
2022 El Ninot de Paper Tinto (Garnacha, Shiraz, Monastrell)
Regular price £8.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Bright and fruity Spanish red with - the eyecatching label design and 'El Ninot de Paper' name are inspired by the 'paper dolls' of the Las Falles de Valencia festival.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Aromas of ripe black fruits with a hint of spice.
Palate
The palate is bright and juicy - blackberries and plums are balanced by soft tannins, juicy acidity, and a touch of pepper.
Awards
- Bronze at the 2020 Sommelier Wine Awards for the 2018 Vintage
Alan's Personal Tasting Notes
"This is a bit of a revelation. Loadsa ripe, juicy black fruits with more a touch of herbs than spice I think? Really soft tannins and a touch more serious than I expected. Overall a real pleasant surprise. Medium-bodied, soft, juicy & fruity, and would be really versatile with food although it drinks really easily on its own. Value but also decent quality for a crowd pleasing easy-drinking style." June 2022
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 33% Garnacha, 33% Shiraz 33% Monastrell |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
12.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
Great with all manner of grilled meats and pasta dishes.
|
Origin | Valencia |
Appellation | DOP Valencia |
2019 Borsao Blanco Macabeo
Regular price £6.50 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
Colour
A young wine with a pale straw colour.
Nose
Lightly floral aromas with peach and citrus.
Palate
The palate has stone fruit and textural, savoury characters with a fresh and fruity finish.
Production
100% Macabeo grown on alluvial soils in the foothills of the Moncayo mountain. After harvesting, pressing and chilling the must - a short period of skin contact is followed by long slow fermentation at controlled temperature of 22ºC - 26ºC in stainless steel tanks.
Producers
The winery was established as a co-operative in 1959. In 2001 it joined with two other progressive, co-operative, cellars in the Campo de Borja region to become the Bodegas Borsao that we know today.
Grapes are sourced from over 375 member growers covering 2,400 hectares - nearly a third of the region's total. Vineyards lie in the undulating foothills of the Moncayo mountain, ranging from around 350m to 800m above sea level. At lower altitudes, vines are younger and may require some irrigation, but higher up the slopes the vines are older, unirrigated bush vines.
The climate is rather severe and arid, with hot dry days, and cool nights - which allow optimum acidity levels to be maintained within the grapes. Garnacha thrives in these conditions and represents 65% of total production. The Cierzo wind from the Moncayo sweeps across the foothills of the mountain. This cold, dry wind reduces humidity levels and allows grapes to be picked a couple of weeks later in the harvest, at full maturity.
Borsao has access to a large number of vineyard plots at different altitudes, and hence to a wide selection of fantastic quality grapes. They are recognised for their entry-level varietals - as outstanding examples of easy-to-drink inexpensive wines - as they are for their premium wines, in particular the iconic, multi-award-winning Tres Picos.
Sustainability
With 2,400 hectares of vineyards, Bodegas Borsao is a substantially sized operation in a warm, dry region and as a result the availability and usage of water is a major issue. Much of its vineyard area is planted with Garnacha which traditionally has been bush trained. Until recently, newer plantings were wire trained for easier harvesting, but because of the greater exposure to sunlight of this training method the vines can require up to 50% more water. As a result, all new plantings have reverted to the traditional style of bush training to preserve water.
Inter-row plantings are used to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil and protect it from erosion; they contribute to a better soil structure, increasing its organic, nutrient and nitrogen content; they improve biodiversity in the vineyard since organic matter is a food source for several macro- and micro-organisms; they often increase the population of earthworms which are good indicators of soil fertility; they improve fauna above the soil, providing habitat and food for beneficial insects; they regulate vine growth, helping to control the yield and quality of grapes and wine; and they reduce the vegetative vigour of vines and thus their susceptibility to grey mould and downy mildew. These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
The new cellar is well insulated to reduce the need for cooling systems and to minimise energy consumption; all the chambers are equipped with automatic LED lighting; all of the bottling lines have been designed to reduce noise and to minimise the need to move dry goods and floor stock items; all hot water installations are solar-powered; the greater part of the electricity used for illumination is produced by solar panels; and every single drop of rainwater from the vast roof is collected and recycled. Planned new offices will also be equipped with solar panels and other energy-saving mechanisms.
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Macabeo |
Country | Spain |
|
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | White Wine |
Features | Vegetarian |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
Seafood dishes, tapas and salads and delicious with classic Spanish paella
|
Origin | Campo de Borja DO |
Appellation | D.O. Campo de Borja |
2023 Borgia by Borsao Rosado
Regular price £8.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Classic Spanish rosado - easy drinking with strawberry notes and fresh acidity. Campo de Borja is often referred to as the 'Kingdom of Garnacha', where this variety reigns supreme.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Deep coral pink colour with aromas of ripe berry fruit and strawberry.
Palate
Dry, approachable and well-balanced, with more appealing juicy strawberry fruit and a creamy mouthfeel.
Production
100% Garnacha grapes grown on alluvial soils in the foothills of the Moncayo mountain. The grapes undergo 6 hours cold maceration for the must to achieve a delicate colour; followed by slow temperature-controlled fermentation at 17ºC in stainless steel tanks.
Producers
The winery was established as a co-operative in 1959. In 2001 it joined with two other progressive, co-operative, cellars in the Campo de Borja region to become the Bodegas Borsao that we know today.
Grapes are sourced from over 375 member growers covering 2,400 hectares - nearly a third of the region's total. Vineyards lie in the undulating foothills of the Moncayo mountain, ranging from around 350m to 800m above sea level. At lower altitudes, vines are younger and may require some irrigation, but higher up the slopes the vines are older, unirrigated bush vines.
The climate is rather severe and arid, with hot dry days, and cool nights - which allow optimum acidity levels to be maintained within the grapes. Garnacha thrives in these conditions and represents 65% of total production. The Cierzo wind from the Moncayo sweeps across the foothills of the mountain. This cold, dry wind reduces humidity levels and allows grapes to be picked a couple of weeks later in the harvest, at full maturity.
Borsao has access to a large number of vineyard plots at different altitudes, and hence to a wide selection of fantastic quality grapes. They are recognised for their entry-level varietals - as outstanding examples of easy-to-drink inexpensive wines - as they are for their premium wines, in particular the iconic, multi-award-winning Tres Picos.
Sustainability
With 2,400 hectares of vineyards, Bodegas Borsao is a substantially sized operation in a warm, dry region and as a result the availability and usage of water is a major issue. Much of its vineyard area is planted with Garnacha which traditionally has been bush trained. Until recently, newer plantings were wire trained for easier harvesting, but because of the greater exposure to sunlight of this training method the vines can require up to 50% more water. As a result, all new plantings have reverted to the traditional style of bush training to preserve water.
Inter-row plantings are used to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil and protect it from erosion; they contribute to a better soil structure, increasing its organic, nutrient and nitrogen content; they improve biodiversity in the vineyard since organic matter is a food source for several macro- and micro-organisms; they often increase the population of earthworms which are good indicators of soil fertility; they improve fauna above the soil, providing habitat and food for beneficial insects; they regulate vine growth, helping to control the yield and quality of grapes and wine; and they reduce the vegetative vigour of vines and thus their susceptibility to grey mould and downy mildew. These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
The new cellar is well insulated to reduce the need for cooling systems and to minimise energy consumption; all the chambers are equipped with automatic LED lighting; all of the bottling lines have been designed to reduce noise and to minimise the need to move dry goods and floor stock items; all hot water installations are solar-powered; the greater part of the electricity used for illumination is produced by solar panels; and every single drop of rainwater from the vast roof is collected and recycled. Planned new offices will also be equipped with solar panels and other energy-saving mechanisms.
Specifications
Year | 2023 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Garnacha |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
13% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10 units |
Type | Rosé Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
Grilled white meats and fish with roasted Mediterranean vegetables.
|
Origin | Campo de Borja |
Appellation | CCL Garnacha |
2022 Borsao Chardonnay Macabeo Seleccion
Regular price £9.45 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
Stone fruit and limey citrus aromas; with nectarine, subtle pineapple characters and a creamy mouthfeel. Gentle and well-integrated oak.
Production
Selected grapes from vines grown on stony, sandy soils, at an altitude of 500 metres. Hand harvested mid–end September. Temperature-controlled fermentation of between 14º-18º C in stainless steel, then matured in French oak bordelaise barrels for three months.
History
The winery was established as a co-operative in 1959. In 2001 it joined with two other progressive, co-operative, cellars in the Campo de Borja region to become the Bodegas Borsao that we know today.
Grapes are sourced from over 375 member growers covering 2,400 hectares - nearly a third of the region's total. Vineyards lie in the undulating foothills of the Moncayo mountain, ranging from around 350m to 800m above sea level. At lower altitudes vines are younger and may require some irrigation, but higher up the slopes the vines are older, unirrigated bush vines.
The climate is rather severe and arid, with hot dry days, and cool nights - which allow optimium acidity levels to be maintained within the grapes. Garnacha thrives in these conditions and represents 65% of total production. The Cierzo wind from the Moncayo sweeps across the foothills of the mountain. This cold, dry wind reduces humidity levels and allows grapes to be picked a couple of weeks later in the harvest, at full maturity.
Borsao has access to a large number of vineyard plots at different altitudes, and hence to a wide selection of fantastic quality grapes. They are recognised for their entry-level varietals - as outstanding examples of easy-to-drink inexpensive wines - as they are for their premium wines, in particular the iconic, multi-award-winning Tres Picos.
Sustainability
With 2,400 hectares of vineyards, Bodegas Borsao is a substantially sized operation in a warm, dry region and as a result the availability and usage of water is a major issue. All new plantings have reverted to the traditional style of bush training to preserve water. Inter-row plantings are used to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil and protect it from erosion. These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
Awards
- 2017 Vintage - Bronze at the 2019 Sommelier Wine Awards
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 50% Macabeo & 50% Chardonnay |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
13.5% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | White Wine |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Food Matches | Perfect with creamy chicken and tarragon, or chicken and leek pie. |
Allergy Information | Contains Sulphites |
Appellation | DO Campo de Borja |
2020 Borsao Selección Rosado
Regular price £8.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Grapes for Borsao's Selección range are sourced from the higher vineyard slopes of the Moncayo mountains, where soils have more sand and the grapes have greater complexity.
Tasting Notes
Nose
A delightfully pale Garnacha rosé with intense aromas of bright red fruits, raspberries and strawberries.
Palate
The palate has ripe red berry and cherry fruit characters, balancing acidity, and an appealing red fruit finish.
Production
Selected Garnacha grapes from 15-30 year old bush vines grown on stony, sandy soils, around 450 metres above sea level. 6-8 hours cold maceration on skins followed by gentle pressing. The free run juice undergoes long, cool fermentation of between 14º-18º C in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature.
History
The winery was established as a co-operative in 1959. In 2001 it joined with two other progressive, co-operative, cellars in the Campo de Borja region to become the Bodegas Borsao that we know today.
Grapes are sourced from over 375 member growers covering 2,400 hectares - nearly a third of the region's total. Vineyards lie in the undulating foothills of the Moncayo mountain, ranging from around 350m to 800m above sea level. At lower altitudes vines are younger and may require some irrigation, but higher up the slopes the vines are older, unirrigated bush vines.
The climate is rather severe and arid, with hot dry days, and cool nights - which allow optimium acidity levels to be maintained within the grapes. Garnacha thrives in these conditions and represents 65% of total production. The Cierzo wind from the Moncayo sweeps across the foothills of the mountain. This cold, dry wind reduces humidity levels and allows grapes to be picked a couple of weeks later in the harvest, at full maturity.
Borsao has access to a large number of vineyard plots at different altitudes, and hence to a wide selection of fantastic quality grapes. They are recognised for their entry-level varietals - as outstanding examples of easy-to-drink inexpensive wines - as they are for their premium wines, in particular the iconic, multi-award-winning Tres Picos.
Sustainability
With 2,400 hectares of vineyards, Bodegas Borsao is a substantially sized operation in a warm, dry region and as a result the availability and usage of water is a major issue. All new plantings have reverted to the traditional style of bush training to preserve water. Inter-row plantings are used to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil and protect it from erosion. These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
Alan's Personal Notes
"Simple pleasures! Lots of summer fruits, some balanced acidity and only natural sugars. Refreshing and classy not sweet and pimped - a proper rosé! One of our most favourite Spring/Summer Rosés!"
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Garnacha |
Country | Spain |
|
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Rosé |
Food Matches | Salads, cured meats, grilled salmon. |
Allergy Information | Contains Sulphites |
Appellation | Campo de Borja |
2022 Borsao Selección Tinto
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%"Possibly the single greatest dry red wine value in the world, this is an unbelievable wine … any wine retailer worth his weight should be stockpiling this wine next to the cash register ...I don’t understand how anyone can make wines this good to sell at this price… 90 points.” Robert Parker, the Wine Advocate #203.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Rich, plum and red berry fruit with a touch of spice on the nose.
Palate
Balanced yet concentrated red fruit mingles with darker spice and chocolate characters to give weight and layers to the palate. Plump ripe tannins add grip to this classic style of Garnacha.
Production
From selected 15 to 30-year-old vines grown in low yielding hillside vineyards around 600m above sea level. Soils are stony with some sand. The Tempranillo and Syrah grapes are trellised, but Garnacha is bush vine. Harvest usually takes place in the first two weeks of October. Varieties are vinified separately (22-24º C) in stainless steel with 10-15 days maceration.
History
The winery was established as a co-operative in 1959. In 2001 it joined with two other progressive, co-operative, cellars in the Campo de Borja region to become the Bodegas Borsao that we know today.
Grapes are sourced from over 375 member growers covering 2,400 hectares - nearly a third of the region's total. Vineyards lie in the undulating foothills of the Moncayo mountain, ranging from around 350m to 800m above sea level. At lower altitudes vines are younger and may require some irrigation, but higher up the slopes the vines are older, unirrigated bush vines.
The climate is rather severe and arid, with hot dry days, and cool nights - which allow optimium acidity levels to be maintained within the grapes. Garnacha thrives in these conditions and represents 65% of total production. The Cierzo wind from the Moncayo sweeps across the foothills of the mountain. This cold, dry wind reduces humidity levels and allows grapes to be picked a couple of weeks later in the harvest, at full maturity.
Borsao has access to a large number of vineyard plots at different altitudes, and hence to a wide selection of fantastic quality grapes. They are recognised for their entry-level varietals - as outstanding examples of easy-to-drink inexpensive wines - as they are for their premium wines, in particular the iconic, multi-award-winning Tres Picos.
Sustainability
With 2,400 hectares of vineyards, Bodegas Borsao is a substantially sized operation in a warm, dry region and as a result the availability and usage of water is a major issue. All new plantings have reverted to the traditional style of bush training to preserve water. Inter-row plantings are used to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil and protect it from erosion. These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
Awards
- 2019 Vintage - Silver at the 2020 Decanter World Wine Awards
- 2016 Vintage - Silver at the 2017 Sommelier Wine Awards
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 85% Garnacha, 10% Syrah & 5% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
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Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Food Matches | A perfect accompaniment to chicken dishes, paella or chorizo. |
Allergy Information | Contains Sulphites & Egg |
Features | Vegetarian Approved |
Appellation | Campo de Borja |
2022 Borgia by Borsao Tinto Garnacha
Regular price £8.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Campo de Borja is considered the 'Empire of Garnacha' - the most prevalent grape in the region, which just thrives here. Borsao have years of experience crafting ripe and appealing wines, such as this, from the variety.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Bright plum and berry fruit aromas
Palate
The palate is rich and welcoming with ripe cassis and bramble characters and soft, approachable tannins on the finish.
Production
Garnacha grown on alluvial soils in the foothills of the Moncayo mountain. Grapes are typically harvested in the first two weeks of October. Temperature controlled fermentation takes place in stainless steel at 22ºC - 25ºC, with a 15 day maceration period.
Producers
The winery was established as a co-operative in 1959. In 2001 it joined with two other progressive, co-operative, cellars in the Campo de Borja region to become the Bodegas Borsao that we know today.
Grapes are sourced from over 375 member growers covering 2,400 hectares - nearly a third of the region's total. Vineyards lie in the undulating foothills of the Moncayo mountain, ranging from around 350m to 800m above sea level. At lower altitudes, vines are younger and may require some irrigation, but higher up the slopes the vines are older, unirrigated bush vines.
The climate is rather severe and arid, with hot dry days, and cool nights - which allow optimum acidity levels to be maintained within the grapes. Garnacha thrives in these conditions and represents 65% of total production. The Cierzo wind from the Moncayo sweeps across the foothills of the mountain. This cold, dry wind reduces humidity levels and allows grapes to be picked a couple of weeks later in the harvest, at full maturity.
Borsao has access to a large number of vineyard plots at different altitudes, and hence to a wide selection of fantastic quality grapes. They are recognised for their entry-level varietals - as outstanding examples of easy-to-drink inexpensive wines - as they are for their premium wines, in particular the iconic, multi award-winning Tres Picos.
Sustainability
With 2,400 hectares of vineyards, Bodegas Borsao is a substantially sized operation in a warm, dry region and as a result the availability and usage of water is a major issue. Much of its vineyard area is planted with Garnacha which traditionally has been bush trained. Until recently, newer plantings were wire trained for easier harvesting, but because of the greater exposure to sunlight of this training method the vines can require up to 50% more water. As a result, all new plantings have reverted to the traditional style of bush training to preserve water.
Inter-row plantings are used to improve the water-holding capacity of the soil and protect it from erosion; they contribute to a better soil structure, increasing its organic, nutrient and nitrogen content; they improve biodiversity in the vineyard since organic matter is a food source for several macro- and micro-organisms; they often increase the population of earthworms which are good indicators of soil fertility; they improve fauna above the soil, providing habitat and food for beneficial insects; they regulate vine growth, helping to control the yield and quality of grapes and wine; and they reduce the vegetative vigour of vines and thus their susceptibility to grey mould and downy mildew. These cover crops mean that less spraying and tending of the vines is required, thus fewer passes are made by tractors which reduces the compaction of the soil and the consumption of diesel. Pheromone treatments are also employed to sexually confuse predatory insects, reducing their populations significantly.
The new cellar is well insulated to reduce the need for cooling systems and to minimise energy consumption; all the chambers are equipped with automatic LED lighting; all of the bottling lines have been designed to reduce noise and to minimise the need to move dry goods and floor stock items; all hot water installations are solar powered; the greater part of the electricity used for illumination is produced by solar panels; and every single drop of rain water from the vast roof is collected and recycled. Planned new offices will also be equipped with solar panels and other energy saving mechanisms.
Awards
- Silver - IWC 2020 (2019 vintage)
- Silver - Sommelier Wine Awards 2018 (2017 vintage)
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Garnacha |
Country | Spain |
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Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Features | Vegetarian |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
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Origin | Campo de Borja |
Appellation | D.O. Campo de Borja |
2022 Ananto Organic Macabeo
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
A beautifully packaged, organic, Macabeo from Manuel Olmo's meticulous vineyards in Utiel-Requena.
Gently floral and lightly tropical aromas lead to a palate with crisp citrus and white peach characters. A gentle and appealing white - well-balanced with fresh acidity.
Production Method
Vineyards are located in the north-west corner of Utiel Requena, 900 meters above sea level. Wines are made from organically grown grapes in vineyards cultivated using natural fertilisers, cover crops, biological control of pests and not using any chemical products that may damage the health of the environment. Grapes are cooled and undergo cold maceration for 12-24 hours and fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for 15 days.
Producer
The 67 hectare Finca Fuenteseca estate lies in Utiel Requena, a high, rugged plateau, nearly 1,000 meters above sea level just inland from Valencia. The combination of hot, dry summers, cold nights and poor, limestone soil make the area relatively free of vine diseases and so ideal for organic farming. The entire estate is now dedicated to organic production and producing blends combining indigenous and international varieties.
A Note on Sustainability
Along with all its wines being certified organic and vegan, Sierra Norte is keenly involved in projects run by its D.O. that benefit local people and which defend the products of its region. In a wider environmental sense, Sierra Norte is developing a wastewater project by installing a treatment system plant to reuse water, as well as being involved in a photovoltaic solar panel installation project.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Macabeo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
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12% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9 units |
Type | White Wine |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Dietary Information |
Vegan, Vegetarian, Organic, Sustainable
|
Food Matches | Ideal to accompany pasta, fish, seafood and white meats. |
Origin | Utiel Requena |
Appellation | DOP Utiel Requena |
2022 Ananto Organic Bobal Tempranillo
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
A juicy, fruity organic red from Utiel-Requena, showcasing the region's increasingly fashionable, indigenous, Bobal variety.
Nose
Vibrant aromas of blueberry and blackberry
Palate
The palate has juicy plum and spice notes wrapped in supple tannins, offering a smooth, harmonious finish.
Producer
The 67 hectare Finca Fuenteseca estate lies in Utiel Requena, a high, rugged plateau, nearly 1,000 meters above sea level just inland from Valencia. The combination of hot, dry summers, cold nights and poor, limestone soil make the area relatively free of vine diseases and so ideal for organic farming. The entire estate is now dedicated to organic production and producing blends combining indigenous and international varieties.
Production Method
Vineyards are located in the north-west corner of Utiel Requena, 900 meters above sea level. Wines are made from organically grown grapes in vineyards cultivated using natural fertilisers, cover crops, biological control of pests and not using any chemical products that may damage the health of the environment. Grapes are cooled and undergo pre ferment whole bunch maceration before temperature-controlled tank fermentation.
A Note on Sustainability
Along with all its wines being certified organic and vegan, Sierra Norte is keenly involved in projects run by its D.O. that benefit local people and which defend the products of its region. In a wider environmental sense, Sierra Norte is developing a wastewater project by installing a treatment system plant to reuse water, as well as being involved in a photovoltaic solar panel installation project.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 65% Bobal, 35% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
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|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Dietary Information |
|
Food Matches | Superb with roasts and stews, red meat dishes, small game, cheese or cold meats. |
Origin | Utiel Requena |
Appellation | DOP Utiel Requena |