2023 Gil Family Estates Atteca Old Vines Garnacha

Bodega Ateca is nestled in the picturesque region of Calatayud, Spain, it is a hidden gem that captivates wine enthusiasts from around the world, it is part of the Orowines Group, a project led by the Gil family. With a rich history dating back centuries, Ateca embodies the essence of Spanish winemaking traditions while embracing modern techniques. 

At the heart of Bodega Ateca’s success lies their dedication to producing outstanding Garnacha wines. Known for its bold flavours and distinctive expression, Garnacha thrives in the Calatayud region, and Sarah Morris, the winemaker, showcases its full potential through her expert craftsmanship.

About Juan Gil Family Estates

The Juan Gil Family estates represents a group of small wineries spread all throughout Spain: from Jumilla to RíasBaixas, Montsant foothills to Calatayud, the flatlands of Almansa to the venerated kingdoms of Rueda and Castilla y León. Of which they all fall under one umbrella of The Juan Gil Family Estates. 

In this way they are able to create a total and representative portfolio of Spanish wine. Each winery brings something unique to the table - displaying a true sense of place. All the wines have one thing in common; they are made from native Spanish varieties.

The Juan Gil Family Estates include:

• Juan Gil
• Shaya
• Can Blau
• Tridente
• Atalaya
• Morca
• Ateca
• El Nido
• Lagar Da Condesa
• Llicorella Vins

The Calatayud wine region is located in the province of Zaragoza, in the northeast of Spain. The area is quite small by Spanish standards: it covers a total of just over 5,000 hectares, on which fewer than 20 Bodegas grow their grapes. The area has been on the rise in recent years. Native varieties such as Garnachea, Tempranillo and Monastrell do particularly well here, but international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are also used.

Most wines undergo fermentation at low temperatures and are bottled quickly. This allows them to retain their characteristic flexibility, freshness and fruitiness. The lower fermentation temperatures preserve the delicate aromas of the grapes, while the rapid bottling process preserves the wine's vibrancy. The result is a refined wine with a supple texture, refreshing clarity and an abundance of fruity flavors. This approach to wine production emphasizes the natural properties of the grapes and produces wines that excel in their simplicity and elegance.

Aragon is a diverse and historic wine region located in northeastern Spain. It's known for its rich winemaking tradition, producing a wide variety of wines, both red and white. Aragon is one of Spain's larger autonomous communities and is situated in the Ebro River basin. The region is divided into three distinct wine-producing areas: Somontano, Cariñena, and Calatayud. Each of these subregions has its own unique characteristics.

More information about Aragon

Aragon, like many Spanish regions, focuses on the cu ltivation of native grape varieties. Garnacha (Grenache), Tempranillo, and Macabeo are among the prominent red and white grape varieties grown in the region. In Somontano, there's a significant presence of international varieties like Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer. Aragon has a deep historical connection to winemaking, dating back to Roman times. The region's tradition is rooted in both Islamic and Christian influences, and it played a significant role in the development of Spain's winemaking heritage. Winemakers in Aragon often use a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. The region's climate and geography provide favorable conditions for organic and sustainable viticulture. Aragon's landscape varies from high mountain vineyards to semi-arid plains, which allows for the cultivation of a wide range of grape varieties and wine styles.

The wines of Aragon encompass a wide spectrum of styles. From fresh and aromatic whites to bold and structured reds, the region offers something for every palate. Cariñena wines are known for their aging potential, while Garnacha-based wines from Calatayud tend to be fruit-forward and approachable. Aragon has seen modernization in its wine industry, with many wineries embracing innovative practices and producing wines of exceptional quality. The region has also been exploring organic and sustainable viticulture. Aragon's diverse winemaking regions contribute to Spain's overall wine diversity. The region's dedication to preserving its rich winemaking heritage while embracing modern practices has made it an exciting destination for wine enthusiasts looking to explore the unique flavors and traditions of this part of Spain.

What about the subregions of Aragon?

Aragon encompasses several distinct subregions, each with its unique characteristics and wine-producing traditions. Here are some key subregions within Aragon:

Somontano: Somontano, which translates to "under the mountain," is located in the province of Huesca. It's situated at the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains, making it one of the most picturesque and promising wine regions in Aragon. The vineyards here benefit from diverse microclimates and varied soil types, creating an ideal environment for growing a wide range of grape varieties. Somontano is particularly known for its high-quality white wines, often made from Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, and other international grape varieties. The region has embraced modern winemaking techniques and is gaining recognition for its innovation.

Cariñena: Cariñena is one of the oldest Denominations of Origin in Spain, recognized in 1932. Located in the province of Zaragoza, it's well-known for its red wines, primarily made from the Garnacha (Grenache) grape variety. The region's hot and dry climate is ideal for the cultivation of Garnacha, which thrives under these conditions. Cariñena wines are known for their bold and full-bodied character, showcasing the region's traditional winemaking techniques.

Calatayud: Situated in the southwestern part of Aragon, Calatayud is renowned for its old-vine Garnacha. The region's vineyards benefit from a hot and dry climate, which is suitable for this grape variety. Calatayud produces bold, fruity, and expressive red wines that are highly regarded both in Spain and internationally. Many of the vineyards are planted on steep, terraced slopes, offering optimal sun exposure for the vines.

These subregions collectively make up the diverse wine landscape of Aragon, and each has its unique terroir and traditions. While Cariñena is celebrated for its bold reds, Somontano focuses on white wines and innovation, and Calatayud is known for its Garnacha-based wines. The combination of traditional winemaking practices and modern techniques has contributed to Aragon's reputation as a notable wine-producing region in Spain.

More information about the grapes that used in Aragon

Aragon boasts a variety of grape varieties that contribute to its rich winemaking tradition. Here are some of the key grape varieties cultivated in the Aragon wine region:

Garnacha (Grenache): Garnacha is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in Aragon and is known for producing full-bodied, fruity, and often high-alcohol red wines. It is a versatile grape used in both red and rosé wines and thrives in the region's warm and dry climate.

Tempranillo: Tempranillo, the signature grape of Spain, is also cultivated in Aragon. It contributes to the region's red wines, providing structure, balance, and flavors of red fruit and vanilla. Wines made from Tempranillo can range from young and fresh to complex and aged.

Monastrell (Mourvèdre): Monastrell is a dark-skinned grape variety that is often used in blends to add depth and color to Aragonese wines. It brings notes of black fruit, spices, and earthiness to the wines.

Macabeo: Macabeo is a white grape variety that is a key component in many of Aragon's white wines. It is known for its freshness and ability to maintain acidity, making it suitable for crafting bright and aromatic white wines.

Viura: Viura, another white grape variety, is used in the production of both white and sparkling wines. It adds crispness and citrusy notes to the wines.

Cariñena (Carignan): Cariñena is a red grape variety that thrives in the Aragon region. It contributes to red blends, adding depth and complexity to the wines. It often imparts dark fruit and spice characteristics.

Syrah: Syrah is grown in some parts of Aragon, and it is used to make intense and aromatic red wines. Syrah adds a distinct peppery and black fruit character to the blends.

Chardonnay: Chardonnay is also cultivated for white wine production in Aragon, especially in the northern subregions. It can yield creamy and fruity white wines.

These grape varieties are part of Aragon's diverse winemaking landscape, allowing for the production of a wide range of wines, from bold reds to crisp whites. The combination of grape diversity, terroir, and winemaking techniques results in a captivating array of Aragonese wines.