Supermarket wines: Tesco Finest Campo di Borja garnacha vs tempranillo

The only difference between these two bottles from Tesco is the grape variety – tempranillo versus garnacha. The latter is one of my favourites, I consume more of it than anything else, but I must admit I never was really interested in the former. However, this time I clearly prefer the tempranillo, to my big surprise…

Tesco Finest Garnacha 2021

Restrained for a Campo de Borja garnacha. Ripe, dark berry fruits without overripeness or noticeable oak. Smooth and soft on the palate, medium-bodied. There is some generosity to it, as one would expect from a garnacha, but nothing overt, it’s kind of elegant. Quite OK for an entry level wine. 84 points. Good value at 1530 HUF (4,5 EUR)

Tesco Finest Tempranillo Campo de Borja 2021

As good as such an entry level red wine gets. Pure, polished and elegant, exceptionally well-made. Dark, warm climate varietal aromas – not fruity but savage, as is the tempranillo way. An interesting vegetal edge, perhaps green peppercorns. Seamless and smooth on the palate with real harmony. A complete wine, very enjoyable. 86 points, amazing value at 1530 HUF (4,5 EUR).