Aragon

• Garnacha Tinta (Grenache): robust, concentrated reds from old bush vines, bursting with ripe red and black fruits, spice, and a signature warmth; styles range from bold and rustic to fresher, more elegant expressions with earlier harvests and minimal oak.
• Cariñena (Carignan/Mazuelo): deeply colored, structured wines with bright acidity; often used to add backbone and complexity to Garnacha blends.
• Tempranillo: provides structure and savory depth, typically blended with Garnacha or international varieties for added complexity.
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah: international reds thriving in Somontano, featured in both blends and single-varietal wines with notes of dark fruit, spice, and supple tannins.
• Macabeo (Viura): dry, medium-bodied whites from warmer zones like Cariñena, showing citrus, apple, and delicate floral notes.
• Chardonnay: excels in Somontano; styles range from crisp and unoaked to Burgundian-inspired barrel-fermented whites with layered citrus and stone fruit.
• Gewürztraminer: a Somontano specialty offering aromatic, floral-driven whites with lychee and spice.
• Garnacha Blanca, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling: add freshness and aromatic lift to blends or stand-alone whites, with profiles spanning herbal, citrus, and mineral notes.
• Alcañón: rare, indigenous white grape revived for its subtle, refreshing, and delicate wines.
• Rosado (Rosé): typically Garnacha-based, vibrant and fresh with strawberry, red fruit, and herbal undertones.
• Old-vine Garnacha cuvées: smooth, complex reds with depth and concentration, crafted from century-old, dry-farmed vines.
• Sweet and late-harvest wines: produced in limited quantities, showing luscious fruit and balanced sweetness.

Aragon is emerging as a leader in sustainable wine production, where the region's climate and dedicated vintners create a perfect environment for eco-friendly practices. The dry conditions and the cooling *cierzo* wind naturally reduce the need for chemical interventions, allowing for low-impact viticulture. Many wineries in Aragon are moving towards organic and biodynamic farming to protect their environment and maintain healthy vineyards. This transition involves practices like using cover crops to prevent soil erosion, employing drip irrigation to manage water efficiently, and focusing on biodiversity to sustain soil health. The region's commitment to sustainability extends into the winemaking process as well. Producers are increasingly adopting "natural" methods, such as using indigenous yeasts and reducing sulfur in their wines. Eco-friendly packaging, like lightweight bottles and cork recycling programs, helps reduce the carbon footprint. Additionally, there's a focus on conserving heritage by reviving native grape varieties and protecting century-old vines, ensuring that the genetic and cultural diversity of Aragon's vineyards is preserved. These efforts not only enhance the quality and value of Aragonese wines but also demonstrate a genuine respect for the land and future generations.

Aragon has become a notable destination for wine tourism in Spain, attracting over 500,000 enthusiasts each year. The region features four certified Wine Routes that showcase its distinct DOPs: Somontano, Campo de Borja, Cariñena, and Calatayud. These routes offer an immersive experience, combining modern and historical wineries with cultural and culinary activities. Highlights include the Wine Museum at Veruela Monastery, which delves into the Garnacha legacy in a historic setting, and Somontano’s vibrant visitor centers and wine bars. The routes are part of Spain’s national Wine Routes network, making them accessible for those eager to explore Aragon’s rich winemaking culture. Aragon’s wine tourism is also distinguished by a variety of events and unique experiences. The Festival Vino Somontano in Barbastro combines local wines with gourmet tapas, concerts, and workshops. In Campo de Borja, the Verano en Veruela concert series enhances the wine experience with live music in beautiful vineyard settings. For those seeking adventure, vineyard hiking and cycling are popular, with trails offering scenic views of the lush landscape. Aragon's commitment to blending culture, nature, and gastronomy ensures that its wine tourism offers an authentic and memorable experience, reflecting the region’s deep-rooted viticultural heritage.

Aragon, a historical cornerstone of Spanish viticulture, is brimming with notable wineries that have shaped its modern wine identity. Here are a few standouts:

• Enate & Viñas del Vero (DO Somontano): Key players in Somontano's revival, known for their award-winning international varietals and modern winemaking.
• Bodegas Borsao (DO Campo de Borja): Celebrated for its Garnacha, Borsao is a leader in delivering excellent value wines that embody Campo de Borja's sunny terroir.
• Bodegas Alto Moncayo (DO Campo de Borja): A boutique winery renowned for its old-vine Garnacha, earning global acclaim for its powerful, complex reds.
• Bodegas San Alejandro (DO Calatayud): Esteemed for its high-altitude Garnacha and commitment to sustainability, setting a benchmark in Calatayud.
• El Escocés Volante: The creative endeavor of Norrel Robertson MW, crafting expressive wines from Aragon's high-altitude vineyards.
• Grandes Vinos y Viñedos (DO Cariñena): A major force in Cariñena, transforming traditional bulk wine practices into a focus on quality and global reach.
• Pago Aylés (Vino de Pago Aylés): Distinguished as Aragon's sole *Vino de Pago*, this estate is noted for its terroir-driven wines from a historic landscape.