Bodegas Alto Moncayo is a winery located in the Campo de Borja D.O. It was founded in 2002 with the aim of turning it into a world reference for Garnacha wines of the highest quality, crafted from some of the oldest native vine clones in the area.The garnacha grape is one of the varieties that best expresses its terroir. Thus, the Garnacha of Alto Moncayo is different from the rest of the Campo de Borja D.O area. This is due to the very strict selection made from the vineyards, the type of soil in which it is grown, the microclimate, and the age of the vines.
Located in Borja- the heart of the Campo de Borja DO . Vines are planted at the foothills of El Moncayo which is the highest point in the Iberian Mountain Range (2,315 m) and the winery's namesake. The region experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Vineyards are planted on very unique soils of red clay (indicative of being rich in iron) mixed with red slate, and because of the hillside location are shallow and nutrient-deficient.
The Garnacha grapes of Alto Moncayo undergo very strict vineyard selection, from vines planted as far back as the early 1900's through the 1970's. Only the most perfectly mature clusters are selected and carried in small crates to prevent crushing, where they are further sorted and selected at triage tables. Wines undergo malolactic fermentation in both French & American oak, and aged in new barrels between anywhere from 16-24 months. These practices, in combination with the unique microclimate of the area ensure superior quality Garnacha that is distinct from any other in the Campo de Borja D.O.
Bodegas Alto Moncayo Aquilon Garnacha is made from 100% Garnacha.
The wines of Alto Moncayo are crafted to express the unique terroir of windswept high elevation Campo de Borja DO; and to serve as a benchmark for world class Old Vine Garnacha.
Aquilón is "The jewel in the Crown" a selection of the best barrels from the best lots. The vines are 60-100 years old.
Review:
This garnet-colored wine offers aromas of black currant, black raspberry and black licorice, with just a touch of charcuterie. The fruit flavors shine through with subtle notes of crushed violet. It has soft tannic structure, with a pleasant bit of grippiness in the post palate as it leads up to the long, long, finish.
-Wine Enthusiast 95 Points
About the Vineyard
Vineyards in Tabuenca and Borja, planted with indegenous clones of Garnacha starting in the 1920s.
Wine Production
The selected highest quality grapes are placed into small stainless-steel tanks of 7 tons capacity. The must is basket pressed and fermentation is finished in new French and American oak where it complets the malolactic fermentation. Wine is aged in the barrels for 24 months before bottling.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Very deep red, scarlet rim
Aroma: Minerals and vanilla. Hints of raisins and dark Chocolate
Palate: As typical of the vintage, power and intensity with disarming elegance.
Food Pairing:
Goes well with beef, pork, game based stews and rice dishes.
Double Diamond by Schrader Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon.
The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon offers concentration, lively acidity, and refined tannins that have become the hallmark of the 2022 vintage. The nose holds notes of black raspberry, toasted cedar, juicy plum, and pennyroyal mint—a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon signature. The palate is mouthwatering with intricately woven layers of blackberry compote, dark chocolate shavings, oolong tea, and flint. The dynamic flavors carry across the mid-palate in vivid harmony into a long, floral finish. This wine is ready to drink upon release but will cellar well for years to come.
Barrels: 54% new French oak, 46% second-use Schrader Darnajou French Oak