Author: Dirk Chan
Our online feature this week is the Hijos de Juan Gil Honoro Vera Garnacha (Calatayud, Spain) – $17.49, regularly $21.99.
The Gil Family is based in Jumilla, an fast rising winegrowing area just south of Valencia where the original winery, Juan Gil, is also located. The family established this winery in 1916, and since then it has been refined and expanded to take advantage of the remarkable climate – which sees hot summers and long, cold winters, with a regular difference of 25 ºC between day and night temperatures.
Their ventures in Castilla y León, Montsant and Priorat, Calatayud, Rueda, Almansa and Rías Baixas has increased exposure of these small estates has seen them receive consistently high ratings from international critics that belie their consistently accessible price points. This makes the Gil Family wines that rare thing: small-production wines that are both value buys and extremely rewarding.
Our feature this week is their Honoro Vera Garnacha, offering aromas of cocoa, black fruits, violets and oregano. With a medium-bodied palate of savory notes, blueberries and a generous mouthfeel ending with some spice, it pairs well with dishes like burgers with Middle Eastern flavors or shawarma. Made from 50 year old vines. A fine choice at an affordable price!
Hijos de Juan Gil Honoro Vera Garnacha (Calatayud, Spain) – $17.49, regularly $21.99