Cabirol 2011 Organic Garnacha Tempranillo made in Montsant, a Spanish region that is adjacent to Priorat and yet is not enjoying the exclusive reputation of the latter, but, I shall say, quickly catching up.
The wine is strong with 14.5% abv, typical for warmer climates.
For the same reason, you should be expecting ample aromas of bramble and black fruit and you definitely get that, but with some very ripe apple aromas as well, which give this wine that small touch of freshness.
When you taste the wine, you notice pretty much the same, but the apple at the back again proves to give that additional refreshing acidity, which counterbalance the ripeness of the fruit. Sounds complicated. Yet when you try it for yourself, you can see that the complexity is there and the flavours are quite pronounced. What is impressive is how this wine’s sharpness is complemented with freshness and some further oak – really good job!
For me it is a very exciting wine, which I suggest having with something quite one dimensional, so you can appreciate these different layers in this organic wine from Montsant. I am thinking of cheese, i.e. simple cheddar (flavour intensity 1-3) – it will be pleasant and a good match to appreciate the flavour complexity of this wine made from organic Garnacha and Tempranillo grapes.
The wine was sourced at Vintage Roots for just under £10.
28/35
As always, please be sure to check the top list – The Best Organic Wines for more organic wine inspiration and reviews. If you want to know more about organic, biodynamic and natural wines please see Organic Wines FAQ page.




