(Sample wines provided by www.gregorywine.com and wine sample photos by www.LaylaMays.com)
This summer’s temperatures are still on the rise. It’s never been a better time to explore the refreshing wines from the region of Cariñena. Discover wines that you will enjoy during this hot summer that also pair well with your favorite summertime foods.
About the area:
D.O.P. Cariñena is located in the heart of the Ebro Valley in Spain’s northeast region of Aragón bordered by France to the north and Catalunya to the east. This area is rich with history. From 1415 when King Ferdinand declared Cariñena wines were preferred above others until Grenache in the style of Cariñena was discovered to be the next grape and region to watch, they have become favorite wines for hot weather enjoyment.
The extreme night-to-day temperature variations and climate of Cariñena produces rich, expressive wine with ample aromatics and structure.
About the grapes:
The white wines featuring Chardonnay and native grapes such as Macabeo/Viura and 100% Garnacha-based rosé are three refreshing options perfect for warm weather entertaining.
Food Pairing suggestions:
Lighter meals for the summer weather such as colorful grilled vegetables and fish pair well with the zesty, citrus and aromatic notes while summer pastas and salads will be a perfect accompaniment to the rose’.
Traditional Spanish pairings are featured on the website. Check out this Migas recipe. This beloved dish is considered Cariñena comfort food by the local residents.
Share your experience on social media using the hashtag #CoolDownwithCariñena and they will re-post to all their friends and followers.
100% Macabeo
12% Alcohol
This is a perfect summertime wine for a variety of cool summertime salads and entrees. Light bodied, zesty and aromatic, you’ll enjoy the mouthwatering citrusy lemon zest. Fresh cut pineapple, green apple and hint of bitter almonds on the palate and the white floral notes on the nose make this an irresistible wine. If the grape sounds familiar-Viura (Macabeo) – that’s because it’s one of the grapes in the Spanish sparkling wine Cava. So you know it’s going to be refreshing on it own as a still wine.
13% alcohol
Rose’s are everyone’s favorite for summertime ….everything!
This vibrant pink Spanish Garnacha Rosè boasts tangy acidity of juicy raspberries, strawberries and and juicy ripe watermelon. There is a slight savoriness to this wine which lends to the versatility in food pairings for this wine. Spiced grilled lamb chops or salmon and anything with tomatoes would be a welcomed pairing with this wine.
#CoolDownwithCariñena
Now, go enjoy the rest of this very hot summer with three cool and refreshing wines!
