Wine of the Week, August 11, 2013

BORSAO GARNACHA 2011 SPAIN $8.99/2 for $16.00

Garnacha (Grenache) is the name of a varietal of grape, which is planted extensively throughout the world, especially in Spain and in France, where, along with Syrah (Shiraz), it is a major component of Cotes du Rhone, one of my favorite wines. Borsao is one of those red wines that can stand a sllight chilling in the summer months-half an hour to forty-five minutes-without the loss of flavor.  Borsao Garnacha, 85% Garnacha 15% Tempranillo, is medium- to full-bodied; has an intense, concentrated cherry flavor, similar to kirsch, the German brandy; and aromas and flavors of raspberry, clove, and peppery spice; it is velvety in texture, with a good, long, smooth finish. Robert Parker in the Wine Advocate, whose opinion can make or break a vineyard, has given it 90 points.