Carinena DO Garnacha Tardano 2021 Agricola La Portera

What kind of wine is it

Tardano by Agricola La Portera is a red wine made from Garnacha grapes grown in Aragón. The vinification involves spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel and gentle extraction to preserve a clear, varietal character. Aging between concrete and oak barrels produces a full-bodied yet taut sip, with good acidity and a fresh, lively, and defined character. The style combines red fruit, measured spice, and a mineral perception that foreshadows the tasting profile.

Where does it come from

The grapes are grown in Almonacid de la Sierra, in Aragón, within the Cariñena denomination. The vineyards rest at an altitude of 650 meters and benefit from a continental climate that promotes temperature variations and optimal ripening. The clay and limestone soils contribute structure and tension. The vines, planted in 1983, translate the terroir into a sip that harmoniously balances structural fullness and freshness.

How is it produced

Harvesting is aimed at precise vinification. The fermentation happens spontaneously in stainless steel with natural yeasts, manual pigeage, and no pump-overs. The wine then ages for twelve months in a concrete tank and completes its maturation in oak barrels. This method preserves the fruity profile and carefully integrates subtle spicy notes from the wood, ensuring a streamlined drinking experience.

Tasting notes

It reveals a ruby red color of good intensity. On the nose, red cherry and raspberry aromas emerge clearly, followed by hints of licorice, a touch of pepper, and a subtle mineral trace on the finish. On the palate, it is full-bodied and reveals a potency of flavor well integrated with pronounced acidity, supporting the progression and lending a lively sip. The finish retains the fruit and offers a dry, clean finish.

Food pairing

It naturally pairs with grilled red meats and aged cheeses, thanks to its palate-cleansing acidity. The fruit and spice work well with dishes featuring the typical browning of Spanish cuisine. It is a fitting match for ternasco de Aragón asado, as it complements the intense succulence of the meat, or a hearty chuletón grilled over coals, always ensuring a consistent flavor balance between savoriness and freshness.

When to serve it

This is an ideal red wine when looking for a full and dynamic sip, perfect for an informal dinner or a more structured meal. It shines at the table, especially in cooler seasons when fruity nuances are most prominent. The time in steel and concrete emphasizes immediate drinkability, while the wood adds depth of flavor. Enjoyed leisurely, it reveals a consistent balance of aromatic intensity and measured spices.