Bitch Grenache 2009

" I blended Bitch Grenache Aragon 2009 from a selection of un-oaked Grenache wines from various sub-regions of Aragon and Navarra, around the Southern regions of the Ebro river valley. The climate is typical of inland Northern Spain; continental with very cold winters and hot, dry summers. Although rainfall varies considerably, depending on altitude, the annual average rainfall in Zaragoza, the regional capital of Aragon, is around 360mm or 14", which is very low and comparable with the dry, inland viticultural climates of Southern Australia and the central valley of California. Soils vary considerably as well. They are typically alluvial, but zones of rich red-brown loams and white limestone are intermixed with very rocky slate at higher altitudes. Grenache (Garnacha) survives here without the need for irrigation. Yields are typically low and this, combined with a historical selection of small-berried, deeply colored clones, produces wines of a more "masculine" expression of the variety. Dark cherry and raspberry aromas are underpinned with spicy, peppery notes with hints of anise. Aragon Grenache displays extraordinary natural acid balance, even at elevated ripeness levels. I have selected wines, which convey vibrant, juicy fruit together with a very soft, sweet-fruited palate structure. The key here, as I have found elsewhere with my winemaking experiences, is very gentle handling during the primary fermentation, with a big emphasis on very soft pressing of the fermented grape skins. While Aragon Grenache can take surprisingly well to quite lavish new oak during maturation, the style for Bitch Grenache is all about fruit aromas and flavors. Maturation without oak influence enhances the natural fruit expression of these selections. 2009 vintage in Northern Spain saw a continuation of warm, dry summers, with very little rainfall during the vintage months. Clean, slowly ripened grapes retained impeccable fruit and acid balance at harvest time. Bitch Aragon Grenache is very approachable now, but don't be deceived into thinking that it won't age. I predict that the wine will develop further personality with 3 to 5 years in the cellar." ~ Winemaker Chris Ringland