2018 Bodegas Borsao Bolé

Garnacha originated in Aragón, where Borja is located, and it owes its development throughout Europe to the power of the Kingdom of Aragón, whose expansion saw Garnacha become well established in the Rhone Valley in the 19th century, Italy and Sardinia.

The Grenache and Syrah vineyards have an age of 15 to 30 years for the Grenache and 10 years for the Syrah, both cultivated on stony, slimy soils with clay and limestone. Maceration for 3-4 days and in total between 12-15 days. Separate fermentation of each variety in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature between 22ºC - 26ºC. It matured for five months in second and third use French oak barrels, and the oak is very well integrated and respects excellently. The Borsao Bolé is a blend of Garnacha and Syrah that felt very integrated and harmonious. Has a strong nose in which aromas of ripe fruit and spices can be distinguished, with memories of new wood. Structured mouth, with a lively and tasty step. The taste is strong yet medium-bodied and retains good freshness, making it tasty and long. Very impressive. This is a bargain.

Recommended in the Volkskrant - Bodegas Borsao Bolé
“That ancient Roman could not have imagined that! Romans, plural, also best. There may have been two Saint Valentines, who may have lived in the 3rd century and may have been put to death for their faith. So martyrs. We don't know anything else about them and that's why their day of death (that's how it works with saints: it's their birth in heaven) has become the international Day of Silent Love. Logically. By the way, that love is no longer silent. Once you sent an anonymous card, now you have to celebrate together, with flowers and bonbons and kinky lingerie. And wine, of course. Van Kooten and De Bie once sang about the ecstatic combination with rum beans, but I have my doubts about that. The Borsao Bolé, a glowing red wine from Aragon, doesn't need that either. In a cloud of 15 percent alcohol, he whispers tender Spanish words about dark fruit and warm spices. Half an hour in the refrigerator makes you taste the alcohol less (gna gna), so if you still want to seduce someone, that can be an instrument. Oh, and buying roses along with it definitely works well.”

Onno Kleyn • De Volkskrant 13 February 2021 • Price/quality 8+