Campos de Luz Old Vine Garnacha 2018
Winemaker Notes
Although much of these plantations have been replaced with other varieties, there are still areas where Garnacha dominates, like in the DO Cariñena, where it is 60% of the area planted. The grape varieties of Campos de Luz are mostly Garnacha, although there are also parcels of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Tempranillo, Chardonnay, Macabeo and Moscatel.
The range of Campos de Luz wines is based around Garnacha, the most typical and essential of the grape varieties. These wines are aromatic and utterly bound to the history of the region.
This northeastern Spanish town is believed to be the origin of the grape with the same name. However, Carinena (in French, known as Carignan) has all but been abandoned in favor of Garnacha, which is better suited for its arid climate. The region of Carinena also produces fine examples of whites based on Garnacha Blanca, Macabeo, Parellada and others.
Grenache thrives in any warm, Mediterranean climate where ample sunlight allows its clusters to achieve full phenolic ripeness. While Grenache's birthplace is Spain (there called Garnacha), today it is more recognized as the key player in the red blends of the Southern Rhône, namely Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône and its villages. Somm Secret—The Italian island of Sardinia produces bold, rustic, single varietal Grenache (there called Cannonau). California, Washington and Australia have achieved found success with Grenache, both flying solo and in blends.