« Grilled Cheese Bites | Main | Floyd's Dressing »

The Allure of Spanish Reds

One of the oldest and most important wine regions in the world is Spain. Yet, it’s one of the least known among wine drinkers. With a 3000-year history of vine cultivation, Spain produces wines in all categories; delightful whites, full-bodied reds, fine Sherries and even rich dessert wines. For the most part, climate dictates the characteristics of Spanish wines. In the cooler north, the wines are light in both color and alcohol content. While in the south, the wines tend to be fuller in both flavor and body.

Since the Middle Ages, Spanish wine makers have adhered to agreed upon guidelines for producing their wines. But, in the late 20th century, official legislation mandated that a set standard of quality and official authorization of place names should apply. Consequently, wines that meet said criteria are granted an official guarantee, the Denominacion de Origen, which is included on the labels of eligible bottles.

To get a real taste of some Spanish reds, consider sampling a bottle of Rioja, one of the leading red wine districts. All Riojas are blends, comprised mainly of Tempranillo, the unquestionable king of vines in this area. A bottle of Sierra Cantabria Rioja D.O.C. 2002 will be a garnet red in the glass with light brown highlights. The nose is beautiful, rich with red ripe berry aromas, made complex with notes of violets and even distant vanilla.

The taste is round, lush and rich with the flavors of plums and ripe cherries. This precious wine even lets loose with hints of vanilla. The low acidity gives way to a cleansing finish.

From the romantic countryside of Spain comes Vega Sindoa Merlot Navarra D.O.C. 2000. Clean and clear garnet in color, the interesting nose sends forth the scents of leather, oak and even a bit of raisins. The aroma is both warm and rich. On the tongue, the tastebuds will find the wine pleasantly sharp at first, leveling out with a slight sweetness. It’s just plain delicious and leaves the mouth refreshed.

Big, bold and beautiful best describes a bottle of Juan Gil 2002 Jumilla Red Wine from Spain. The instant I pulled the cork, the wines’ perfume drifted in the air. The dense, big purple-ruby color of the wine let loose with the bold scents of leather and oak mixed with blueberries, ripe black cherries and a bit of chocolate. Savored in the mouth, I was reminded of the beautiful flavors of ripe, red berry fruits jumbled together with smoke, a hint of chocolate and some distant raisins tempering the smooth and very, very acceptable flavors that dominate without heavy astringency. The warmth of the finish culminates the wines experience. Snag a bottle and serve it up with a well-seasoned, grilled steak and any other bold flavored beef dish.

“Wine is the most healthful and hygienic of beverages.” Louis Pasteur

Posted by Floyd at September 2, 2005 08:49 AM