Garnacha "El Chaparral de Vega Sindoa" 2021, Nekeas

The vineyards are situated in the Valley of Valdizarbe, one of Navarra's most historic viticultural areas. The vines thrive on hillsides composed of red and gray marl, with significant sandstone content. The region experiences a continental climate influenced by both Mediterranean and Atlantic factors, helping to contribute to the balance of the ripening grape.

On the nose, the wine bursts with an aromatic complexity that highlights ripe red berries, such as raspberry and cherry, alongside floral notes of rose and subtle hints of Mediterranean herbs. There is also a touch of spice, including white pepper and a whisper of vanilla, contributed by its careful aging in French oak barrels. The palate is equally captivating, offering a medium-bodied structure with vibrant acidity that balances the lush fruitiness. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, providing a velvety texture that supports flavors of wild strawberries, cranberry, and a hint of earthiness.

The 2021 vintage stands out for its fresh and expressive character, reflecting the meticulous care Nekeas takes to preserve the authenticity of its vineyards and the vibrant spirit of Navarra.

This wine pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, roasted vegetables, or cured meats, as well as traditional Spanish fare like patatas bravas or chorizo stew.

About the Winery

Nekeas, nestled in the rugged hills of Navarra in northern Spain, is a winery that weaves together centuries of tradition, the unique characteristics of its terroir, and modern winemaking expertise. The story of Nekeas begins in the 17th century when vineyards flourished in the Valle de Nekeas, a region renowned for its ideal microclimate and rich soils. However, the phylloxera epidemic in the late 19th century devastated the region, and many vineyards were abandoned. It wasn’t until the 1980s, when a group of eight families with deep roots in the area united, that the vineyards were revived and the legacy of Nekeas was reborn. This collaborative spirit still defines the winery today, with a shared commitment to producing wines that honor the region’s heritage while embracing innovation.

The terroir of Nekeas is integral to the distinctiveness of its wines. Nestled at the foothills of the Pyrenees, the vineyards benefit from a unique confluence of Atlantic, Mediterranean, and continental climates. This creates a perfect balance of warm days and cool nights, which allows the grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors. The soils, a mix of clay, limestone, and gravel, add further character, imparting minerality and depth to the wines. The diversity of the terrain, ranging from rolling hills to steep slopes, enables the cultivation of a variety of grape varieties, including Garnacha, Tempranillo, and Viura, which thrive in this dynamic environment.

Nekeas combines traditional techniques with cutting-edge winemaking practices to craft wines that express both the history and the future of the region. The winery emphasizes sustainability, maintaining a deep respect for the land through organic farming and careful vineyard management. In the cellar, innovation meets tradition; for example, the wines are aged in a mix of French and American oak barrels to create nuanced flavors and textures. Nekeas is celebrated for its fresh and aromatic whites, as well as its vibrant reds that balance power with elegance. Each bottle encapsulates the essence of Navarra—a fusion of history, passion, and an unwavering dedication to excellence.