Wines Cariñena Castillo de Aguaron - Viñas Viejas - 2011

Castillo de Aguaron Cuvée Viñas Viejas 2011 is a red wine from the Carinena DO, located in the historic region of Aragon, Spain. This cuvée is crafted from old vines, contributing intensity and depth to the wine. Typically, Carinena reds are made from Garnacha (Grenache), Cariñena (Carignan), and sometimes Tempranillo or Syrah, though the dominant grape here is likely Garnacha, given the area’s tradition and expressive old-vine stock. The 2011 vintage enjoyed a warm growing season, encouraging fully ripe fruit and robust tannins. Traditional vinification methods are favored here, with careful temperature control during fermentation to preserve fresh fruit character, often finished with aging in oak barrels to add spice and structure. The result is a wine with ripe dark fruit aromas, hints of plum, dried herbs, licorice, toasted oak, and an earthy finish.

Carinena is one of Spain’s oldest appellations, with winemaking heritage dating back to Roman times. The region sits at the foothills of the Iberian System mountain range, where vineyards benefit from a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, tempered by the cool Cierzo wind. The stony, limestone-rich soils are ideal for old vines, forcing roots to dig deep and producing concentrated, characterful wines. This combination of terroir and climate ensures grapes ripen fully while retaining freshness—a signature of the area’s best red wines.

Pair this wine with hearty Spanish cuisine such as roast lamb with rosemary, grilled chorizo, or a rich rabbit and olive stew. Dishes with smoky paprika or baked vegetables, like a Catalan escalivada, complement the savory depth and subtle spice of the wine. For cheese, opt for aged Manchego or cured sheep cheeses from the region—their nutty sharpness provides a lovely contrast to the wine’s fruit and earth notes.

To fully appreciate Castillo de Aguaron Cuvée Viñas Viejas 2011, decant for at least 30 minutes and serve at 16-18°C. This temperature allows the aromatic complexity and supple texture to emerge, enhancing both fruit and savory elements at the table.