Altovinum 2013 Evodia Old Vines Garnacha Calatayud, Spain
Evodia is an exciting new project in the Denominacion de Origen Calatayud, hailed as one of Spain's most progressive and promising wine growing regions. It is here, in the vineyards of Atea, that Altovinum sources their Garnacha grapes for Evodia. In addition to the remarkable climate due to elevation, the property is comprised of pure schiste soils, known as pisara in the local area. Aficionados familiar with the wines of the Priorat and the Roussillon are well acquainted to this soil type and its extraordinary influence on the wines.
Named after the Greek word for aroma, the Evodia is the product of very old vine Garnacha (up to 100 years old). Aromas of rich blackberry, cola, licorice, pepper and Indian spices open up in the glass. Flavours of smoke, mocha and black fruit linger on the finish. This wine is aged in stainless steel, which makes it a better candidate for pairing with spicy foods than reds aged in oak. The tannins of the Evodia are smooth and silky, an important element when the wine is being paired with spice.