Spain is a land of breathtaking landscapes, colorful history and a deep, complex culture in which wine has long played an important role. Spain has more land dedicated to wine production than any other country and is the second-largest producer of wine globally, behind Italy and ahead of France and the United States. There are dozens of winemaking regions and hundreds of types of Spanish wine grapes and each part of the country has its own iconic varieties.
Historically, winemaking culture throughout Spain is very rustic and steeped in traditions of the Old World. Oxidized styles are common as well as the heavy use of American oak for lengthy periods of barrel ageing. However, in the past few decades, Spain's wine industry has engaged in a great deal of modernization and an embrace of New World techniques. The result has been a significant improvement in quality and reliability. We will taste:
Viñabade Albariño 2021 — Located in the heart of the Salnes Valley in Rias Baixas, Viñabade was founded by Manuel Vazquez 50 years ago. The grapes are harvested from 30+year-old vines. The name “Viñabade” means “Abbot’s Vineyard” in the Galician language, a reference to the Cluny monks who are believed to have brought Albariño to the area from Burgundy in the 12th or 13th century. The granitic soil and Atlantic climate of the area provide perfect growing conditions for Albariño, producing clean, bright wines with excellent minerality. This wine is golden yellow color with greenish hues. Floral nose with notes of apple, apricot and peach. Fresh palate with balanced acidity, structure and body. Rating: 91, Mundus Vin. 12.5% ABV. $21.50/$7.50
Pirates Del Ebro Chatxo Rioja Alavesa Tempranillo 2018 — Located between the Ebro River and the imposing rocky mass of the Sierra Cantabria mountain range, Rioja Alavesa is the smallest sub-region with the highest elevation in Rioja. The Sierra Cantabria protects the area from the cold and humid Northern winds, and the vineyards descend in terraces and ravines that shape the unique microclimate. For centuries, the region has been dedicated to the growing Tempranillo. This wine displays notes of berry, cherry, plum, earth, leather, and herb. 14% ABV. $18.99/$6.50
Enrique Mendoza Las Quebradas Monastrell 2018 — Founded in 1989 in Valencia, the well-respected Mendoza winery was quickly inducted into the prestigious Grandes Pagos de España. This group’s mission is to defend and propagate the culture of “pago” wine, meaning wine produced in a specific terroir that reflects the distinct personality of the soil and climate. To become a member, a vineyard must surpass strict quality standards and exhibit a degree of uniqueness in terms of soil, climate or grape variety that sets it apart from the surrounding area. Traditional plantings include Monastrell and Moscatel, although recently the winemaker has experimented with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. The resulting wines are typically fermented in stainless steel and aged in French oak, with long maceration (up to 28 days). Natural farming is prioritized. This 100% Monastrell is full-bodied with an explosion of dark fruits, black pepper, and thyme that unfold into a long, impressive finish. 14.5% ABV. $43.99/$14.50
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