2011 Tapena Tempranillo

2011 Tapena Tempranillo

2011 Tapena TempranilloRed/blueish in the glass, this young Spanish wine offers a noseful of stone fruit and earthy notes. This food-friendly Tempranillo is bright with rich fruit flavors.

Pairings: Grilled lamb, garlicky shellfish, seared salmon

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): Tempranillo

Region: Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA

Price: $8.99

2006 Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva

2006 Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva

Made of three varietals, Tempranillo, Graciano and Mazuelo, this Rioja is dark cherry ruby with a pale ring in the glass that reminds me of some of my favorite California Pinot Noirs.  On the nose are aromas of wet wood, stone fruits and vanilla.  On the palate, this lighter-bodied Spanish wine offers cherries, some rosy notes and a creamy, velvety mouthfeel with a slightly spicy, smooth, long finish.

Had this wine with a platter of cured meats and it was super.  Would be great with grilled meats such as pork or chicken and with heartier fish like swordfish.

This wine was provided to me for sampling and I’m adding to my repertoire as it’s truly enjoyable.

Pairings: Grilled meats, lasagna bolognese

Style: Red Wine

Grape Type(s): 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo

Region: Rioja, Spain

Price: $10

2005 San Roman Toro

2005 San Roman Toro

2005 San Roman Toro

Had been saving this wine for a special occasion and boy what a treat it was.  This Spanish wine is 100% Tinta de Toro (Tempranillo) and inky black in the glass screaming at you to grow a backbone and dare have a sniff and a sip.  The nose is intoxicating with loads of black, ripe fruit, smokiness and strong coffee.  In the mouth, it’s velvety, concentrated and offers juicy fruit and dark chocolate.  The 2005 San Roman Toro features supple tannins with a long, slightly-spicy finish.

Best Spanish wine I’ve had and in my top 50 list.

95 Points – Wine Enthusiast

Around $60.