From its 205,000 sq. ft. winery, Bodegas Garzón produces some of Uruguay’s best wines, including two we are sampling today that are 100% Tannat. Originally planted by Basque settlers, Tannat could be considered the national grape of Uruguay today. I had the pleasure of visiting Uruguay this last November – stunning scenery, wonderful food, amazing wines. Come join me while Jim is in sunny California.
 
2016 Garzón  Albariño Reserve  $16
Pale yellow with greenish reflections, this Albariño is intense in the nose, with peach and citrus notes. There is a freshness and minerality mid-palate that is superb, with remarkable acidity and a round, crisp finish.

2015 Garzón Cabernet Franc Reserve  $19
Intense purple color with violet highlights, this varietal has mineral aromas of ripe peppers, spices and fruits of the forest, along with a subtle note of dark chocolate and smoke from select barrels. In the mouth, there are layers of soft tannins, combining prunes and ripe blackberries with fresh notes of eucalyptus and mint, making it delightfully complex.

2015 Garzón Marselan Reserve  $19
Deep red color, the Marselan presents a powerful aroma that combines notes of red fruits, mineral, mint, and eucalyptus. Smooth on the palate coupled with an intense and long ending, it results in a wine distinguished by an expression of ripe red fruits with mineral.

2015 Garzón Tannat Reserve  $19
A juicy, full-bodied wine. Rich purple in color with very fresh aromas reminiscent of red and black fruits such as plums and raspberries along with a delicate spicy nose. In the mouth, it is presented with a strong personality. Its mature tannins and minerality transform it into a wine with great soil identity.

2015 Garzón Tannat Single Vineyard  $29
With a ripening time ranging from 12 to 18 months in untoasted French oak barrels, this noble Tannat Single Vineyard 2015 is perfect to accompany dishes such as lamb, cured cheese such as the Parmesan, or a delicious duck confit cassoulet. Apart from those dishes, which highlight its spiced notes, it is the ideal ally for the traditional French cuisine.

Madrona Wine Merchants offers free wine tastings featuring 4-5 selections on a theme every Saturday from 2 until the bottles run out and on Sunday we offer a mini-tasting of two wines all day from 11-5.