Just across the river to the east of La Rioja and experiencing a similar climate, Navarra has a reputation for producing solid medium priced wines using much the same grapes as Rioja with the addition of a few 'modern style' grapes.
The main black varieties grown in Navarra are Garnacha, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and in whites Viura/Macabeo and Chardonnay.
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100% Garnacha
Grape varieties are planted at heights ranging between 300 and 475 metres above sea level. The vines are cultivated in the complete absence of mineral fertilizer. The drop by drop irrigation is only used when severe droughts occur. The leaf exposure to the sun is very high, with more than 1,5 squared metres per kilo.
Slow fermentation under controlled temperatures in stainless steel tanks.
Attractive, very lively pink with fuchsia hues. Powerful, inexhaustible aromas of rose petals, enhanced by a whole range of red berries, cherries, and strawberries. Modern, fresh, very clean and fruity. Well d balanced with just the right acidity to underscore the flavours. It is very youthful and luscious despite being a dry wine.
A fine accompaniment to pastry-based canapés and savoury tarts, paella and grilled white meats.
Serve between 13-15 ºC.
Price: £9.19 Including VAT at 17.5%
60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet-Sauvignon
Grape varieties are planted at heights ranging between 300 and 475 metres above sea level. The vines are cultivated in the complete absence of mineral fertilizer. The drop by drop irrigation is only used when severe droughts occur. The leaves exposure to the sun is very high, with more than 1,5 squared metres per kilo.
Aged for 5 months in oak. 75% in French oak casks and 25% in American oak casks.
Intense, bright ruby red; a sign of ripe grapes. Mature, subtle aromas that initially caress the nose with black fruit, blackberries and blueberries, moving onto spicier notes. Light smoky notes underscoring its fruitiness. Powerful attack, with significant volume. Long, with round, not too ripe tannins.
Cured ham, white meat stews and grilled, roast or casseroled red meats are perfectly complemented by this wine.
Serve at 18ºC Price: £9.69 Including VAT at 17.5%
100% Fine grain Moscatel
Harvested in late August or early September, depending on the year, Moscatel Goya Joven is made purely from free run juice. This, after clarification, is cold fermented to some 7% alcohol with fermentation subsequently arrested by adding neutral white wine alcohol. The resulting blend is left to harmonize for approximately 4 months prior to comercial release early the following year.The finished wine has around 150 grammes of residual sugar.
Intense, green-flecked golden yellow in hue, with pronouncedly floral aromas typical of the variety, together with a hint of syrup. Fresh and agreeably fruity on the palate, with overtones of white peach, it is surprisingly uncloying.
This wine goes perfectly with lemony desserts, apple tart, home made cheescake, darkc chocolate based sweets, medium intensity cheeses or simply a plate of almonds or hazelnuts. Price: £6.63 Including VAT at 17.5%
Gold Medal, "Muscats du Monde" 2006
It is pale caramel in colour and, as a consequence of its seven years ageing, is fresh and greengagey with overtones of coffee, dates, menthol, figs, prunes, and green tobacco leaves.
Its development in bottle means it is capable of working extremely well with desserts combining creaminess with fruit - cheesecake for instance, or gateaux, as well as caramelised oranges or similar delights. Price: £10.21 Including VAT at 17.5%
