The best experiences are encountered by serendipity. The Bruja came across this wine during a Sunday lunch at friends who are good at spotting value for money gems.

Tina 3 Garnacha 100% D.O.P Cataluña: this is not the first time that we present a Garnacha, one of Spain’s most iconic grape varieties. A while back we had one from Navarra, though the variety is more associated with Campo de Borja and Cariñena in Aragón and Priorat in Cataluña, producing warm, powerful, structured wines with ripe fruit, spice and generous alcohol levels. 

Garnacha, one of Spain’s most iconic grapes, is best known for bold, structured wines from regions like Campo de Borja, Cariñena, and Priorat. These expressions are rich, ripe, and high in alcohol. But Garnacha is incredibly versatile, revealing a different side in the lesser-known Bages region of Cataluña.

Unlike these well-defined appellations, D.O.P. Cataluña, established in 2001, encompasses over 40 km² and 200 vineyards spread across the region, allowing for blends from different terroirs.

Bages, northwest of Barcelona, sits at the Pyrenees’ foothills, where limestone-rich soils and elevations up to 400 meters shape the wines. The climate is a fascinating mix of continental and Mediterranean influences, with hot, dry summers and cold winters. One key factor is the stark temperature shift between day and night, which slows grape ripening, preserving acidity and enhancing aromatic complexity. The Pyrenees provide natural protection from Atlantic humidity, while cooling winds ensure healthy, balanced fruit.

This unique environment gives Bages Garnacha a fresher, more refined character than its counterparts. Instead of bold power, it leans towards elegance—vibrant red fruit, floral notes, bright acidity, and moderate alcohol, making it exceptionally food-friendly.

Bodega Ramón Roqueta has deep roots in the region’s viticulture. Though the Roqueta family’s winemaking heritage dates back to at least 1199, the modern winery was officially founded in 1898 by Ramon Roqueta Torrentó in Manresa. Generations later, they remain dedicated to preserving local traditions, with the historic Masia Roqueta farmhouse still housing centuries-old winemaking tools like stone vats and presses.

Tina 3 is one of the standout wines from Bodega Ramón Roqueta. Named after the historic practice of fermenting each variety in separate vats (tinas). In the original Manresa winery, Garnacha was traditionally vinified in vat number three, hence the name.

Tina 3 presents a bright, medium-intensity ruby red color with slight garnet reflections at the rim, indicating its varietal purity and careful aging. The wine is clear and brilliant, with a moderate viscosity. Aromas: Fresh red fruits (cherry, raspberry), floral hints (violet, rose), and subtle Mediterranean herbs. Palate: Medium-bodied with bright acidity, fine tannins, and a well-balanced structure. The limestone influence adds a touch of minerality, while the moderate alcohol keeps it fresh and elegant. The vibrant acidity and delicate tannins make it particularly suitable for Mediterranean cuisine, enhancing dishes with herbs, roasted vegetables, and cured meats.  Long finish, with lingering fruit and spice notes.

Serve at 16ºC with – 88-90 Bruja points.  €7.75 online from https://www.bodeboca.com/

(Feature: Wine)

Keywords: Garnacha, Bodega Ramón Roqueta, Campo de Borja, Cariñena, Aragón , Priorat, Cataluña

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