Wine Spectator 93 Points: This red marries the ripe fruit and toasty oak of the international style with a savory, rustic character. A thick, polished texture, supported by well-integrated tannins and balsamic acidity, carries dark plum, black pepper, soy sauce and loamy earth flavors that are seamless and long. Drink now through 2032. 8,000 cases made, 2,000 cases imported. — TM

The Syrah grapes were first planted in 2002, when Chris Ringland, a well-known Australian wine consultant, was working with the Borsao team. The vines were planted on the foothills of Mount Moncayo, to take advantage of the soil, sun and the uniqueness of the Cierzo (a brisk wind that blows down from the northwest over 200+ days of the year), which freshens the grapes from bloom to peak maturity. The vineyard´s altitude is from 350 to 600 meters above see level, in limestone soil, giving the Syrah a pleasant acidity.

 After harvest, maceration time is between 4-5 days and the total fermentation takes 15-20 days in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature. At that time is aged in new American oak barrels for 12 months, and other in stainless steel tank.

Bodegas Borsao, SA, was established in 2001 when the cooperatives of Pozuelo and Tabuenca joined the cooperative of Borja in an effort to combine resources and vineyards. The then 700 members became shareholders and a management team was elected. Today Borsao has 375 winegrowers and produces a full array of wines. While their focus on the star grape of the region, Garnacha, they have planted some international varietals that grow well in this climate.

Charcuterie, Cheese, Grilled preparations, Ham, Hearty stew, Lamb, Mexican, Mushrooms, Pizza, Red Meat, Roasted Root Vegetables, Slow-smoked Barbeque/BBQ Sauce, Tapas, Tomato Sauce, Vegetables