Vinos del Viento is our most recent addition to our Direct import portfolio from Spain. It is a project that focuses on Garnacha and Cariñena (Grenache and Carignan) from the region that is the origin for both varieties, Aragon. All of the DO’s of Aragon are represented in the portfolio; Campo de Borja, Calatayud, Cariñena and Somontano. Winemaker Michael Cooper, who is a native to California, looks for purity and freshness in his wine. To do so he has sought out older vineyards that are found at higher elevations. The youngest vines are 35 years old and the oldest are 99 and the lowest elevation in 1800 feet. Aventura is a departure for Michael in that he was given an opportunity to work with vineyards in Manchuela, more than a decent drive from his home stomping ground in Zaragoza. He could not pass up the old, dry farmed, bush vines. Since the wine is not made within the region, it carries the basic Spain appellation. But what is it? It is a blend of Garnacha, Graciano, Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet) and Syrah. This is a more Northern Rhône-inspired blend, darker and more savory than the rest of his lineup. It is the latter three varietals that bring this. The savory, earthy, spiciness from the Syrah and Garnacha Tintorara with an herbal lift from the Graciano. They are all intensely colored and bring a dark berry fruit to the mix. The Garnacha softens and brightens the blend. All of that and it is a deal to boot!