PREVIOUS TASTINGS ARCHIVE – JUNE 2021
Spain is home to some of the Europe’s most iconic wines, from Sherry to Rioja and from Cava to Priorato. But historic wine regions dot this country, from north to south and east to west. And then there’s the ‘New Spain’ which sees fabulous, crisp whites and a celebration of ancient, unirrigated vines in still moderately-priced bottles.
Spain’s most famous wine is Rioja, and its most famous grape is Tempranillo. Naturally we will include an example of a classic Rioja red, but also an extremely rare, limited edition white Rioja made from Tempranillo Blanco – a white mutation of the Tempranillo grape, only recently discovered and creating a great deal of excitement among winemakers in the region.
Over the two sessions we’ll taste these, plus two more whites and two more reds, spanning Spain’s most planted grape variety, the white Airen, and arguably its best-known white variety, a superb Verdejo, both of these wines being certified organic. The reds are no less interesting, the first featuring Monastrell (also known as Mourvèdre) from 50-year-old unirrigated bush vines, plus a real value for money favourite of mine, a silver medal-winning Garnacha from Bodegas Borsao, delicious and great value.
Vermador, Organic Airen/Macabeo
Menade, Organic Verdejo
Rioja Vega, Barrel Fermented White Rioja
Bodegas Borsao, Garnacha
Bodega de Pinoso, Viñas Viejas Monastrell
Rioja Vega, Tempranillo Colleccion Rioja
You will be taken to the wine purchase page once you have bought your tasting ticket.