Campo de Borja (DO)

Campo de Borja is a Denominación de Origen (DO) for wines located in the province of Zaragoza, within the autonomous community of Aragón, Spain. It is situated in the northeast of the country, surrounding the ancient town of Borja. This wine region is particularly known for its robust red wines made predominantly from the Garnacha grape variety. The DO was officially established in 1980, following a long history of viticulture in the area that dates back to Roman times.

History

The history of winemaking in Campo de Borja stretches back over two thousand years, with the Romans being the first to cultivate vines in the region. The area's winemaking tradition continued through the Moorish occupation and into the Christian reconquest. The establishment of monasteries during the Middle Ages played a significant role in the development of viticulture, as monks produced wine for religious purposes. The DO status was granted in 1980, recognizing the unique qualities of the wines produced in this area.

Geography and Climate

Campo de Borja is characterized by its diverse terrain, which ranges from the flat plains in the east to the rugged mountains of the Moncayo massif in the west. This topographical diversity results in a variety of microclimates within the DO. The climate is generally continental, with hot summers and cold winters, but the altitude of some vineyards, which can reach up to 700 meters, introduces a cooler microclimate that is beneficial for grape cultivation.

Grape Varieties

While Garnacha is the flagship grape variety of Campo de Borja, accounting for the majority of the vineyards, other red grape varieties such as Tempranillo, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon are also cultivated. White wine production is less common, but grapes like Macabeo, Moscatel, and Chardonnay can be found in the region.

Wine Production

The wines of Campo de Borja are renowned for their intensity and depth of flavor, particularly the reds made from old-vine Garnacha. These wines often exhibit rich, fruity aromas and flavors, with a good balance of acidity and tannins. The region's winemakers employ both traditional and modern techniques, with an increasing focus on sustainability and organic practices.

Regulatory Council

The Consejo Regulador DO Campo de Borja oversees the regulation and promotion of the DO, ensuring that wines produced under the Campo de Borja label meet strict quality standards. The council also works to promote the region's wines both domestically and internationally.

Tourism

Campo de Borja attracts wine enthusiasts from around the world, offering wine tours, tastings, and other oenotourism activities. Visitors can explore historic wineries, enjoy the beautiful landscapes, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the region.