Rojo GranRojo (2005)
October 4, 2007 — Tom & Melody
Tom purchased this Rojo GranRojo 2005 from Spain at Busch’s grocery store in Ann Arbor. I can’t tell you exactly what he paid, but he told me it was under $10. This is a blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha (known as Grenache in France). When Tom first opened the bottle he was concerned I would not like it because the nose was light and he could tell it was not a big wine. Well, he is right — it is not a big red — but I do like it.
This Rojo GranRojo 2005 is pleasant and drinkable. It is just lighter than what we generally enjoy. The body is light and the nose is subtle, with a touch of licorice and red berries. It has the bluish appearance of crushed blueberries. With well-rounded tannins, it is refined and fresh with hints of minerals. There is a bit of thyme and minerals on the finish. We will have this wine with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are simmering in a cast-iron skillet, with mashed potatoes and gravy, fresh-picked tomatoes (from my garden), and steamed green beans. Oh, and some whole-grain bread that Tom brought home from Busch’s.
Tom: We’re focusing on Spanish wines this week and they’ve been excellent. This Rojo GranRojo 2005 is a quite light red, a combination of the rosé-like garnacha and the medium-body tempranillo. It’s dry with pleasant berry fruit and should go very well with our chicken tonight.