New Wave meets Tradition in this Best Buy Red
There’s a new trend that’s been developing in the wine world, and Spain seems to be at the head of the curve in this endeavor. The trend: superbly crafted, traditionally made wines that sport crazy, fun labels. What’s most refreshing about all of this is that despite what the crazy, fun labels may suggest, it’s now very hip to be traditional.
Yes, it’s true… in many winemaking circles all around the globe, the coolest thing around is the most traditional. Young winemakers are returning to their home regions after studying in such hotspots as Burgundy, Bordeaux, Rioja and the Piemonte in Italy and bringing back with them all of the wonderful experience and lessons learned. Those lessons are applied with love and respect to their local culture and winemaking traditions. The wine-drinking public comes out as the real winner of this trend!
Valencie - arrid, rugged and just right for grapes
In 1950, Antonio Arráez Garrigós founded Bodega Arráez in La Font de la Figuera, a somewhat sleepy village an hour’s drive from Valencia. A major turning point at the Bodega occurred with the entry of the third generation winemaker: Antonio “Toni” Arráez, grandson of the founder. Toni returned to his home region after his studies at Oenology School and after years of practical experience abroad and throughout Spain. He was determined to apply all of this valuable experience at his family winery in order to produce the best expression of wines from his home region.
Ripe berries and strawberry layerd with vanilla and cacao
Canallas Tinto is sourced from vines grown on the clay and calcareous soils of La Font de la Figuera, at an altitude of 2000 feet above sea level on the outskirts of Valencia. American oak barrel aging for 4 months provides a roundness seldom found in such an inexpensive wine, and their high percentage of used barrels ensures the vibrant freshness that I love in this wine.
The brilliant violet color leads to aromas of cherry, ripe strawberries, vanilla, and cacao. It’s wonderfully juicy on the palate, featuring notes of dark berry, blueberry, vanilla, and spice, all lingering nicely through the lengthy finish. Enjoy this one with a wide variety of foods — burgers, chops, steaks, stews, and roasts.
This is a really fun wine; however, it is made by a very serious wine-maker. Well, a serious winemaker with a sense of humor — Canallas translates to “scoundrel” or “scallywag” and the graphics on the label, drawn by young artists, were inspired by street murals and the latest urban art.
So there you have it, a great deal on an inexpensive, serious, wine that we don’t have to take seriously at all! Stock up on this one to keep on hand for parties and impromptu visits from serious and not so serious friends — the label alone is a great conversation starter!
Bodegas Arráez Canallas Tinto
D.O.Valencia, Spain- Can't make it in? Call 828-253-0060 with your credit card number.
We'll hold your purchase in our temperature controlled cellar for pickup at your convenience
or we'll arrange for delivery.