We recently hosted a teacher appreciation event for our school
district with a tasting of Spanish wine, olives and cheese. In the
process (since educators were involved!) a basic lesson on the wines
of Spain was conducted with great success. We demonstrated all the
virtues we’ve come to know and love about the Iberian Peninsula, such
as unique grape varietals, expert winemakers, rave reviews from the
critics and tremendous values to be had. Below is the line-up that
took all attendees on a memorable cruise aboard the Wine Armada:
Segura Viudas Aria Brut Cava - Penedes (Sparkling Wine) $9.99
"A blend of 50% Macabeo, 40% Parellada &10% Xarel-lo from an
11th-century estate outside Barcelona. Aged sur lie, in underground
caves, for a minimum of 15 months, the pear-like fruit integrates with
the bubbles, providing a clean flavor, dominated by fresh pineapple,
almonds and honey, finishing with hints of pears and fresh bread."
(90 Points - Wine & Spirits)
Martin Codax Albarino 2011 - Rias Baixas (White) $14.99
"Named after a Galacian poet, from the Middle Ages, who wrote about his
love of the sea. 100% Albarino aged sur lie for 4 months, creating a
delicate and medium-bodied wine, with a crisp, dry finish. Flavors of
ripe apple, peach, pear and lemon zest are framed by bright
minerality, and hints of spice, making it a versatile, food-friendly
wine."
(2010 vintage rated 90 pts. by Wine Enthusiast)
"100 % Garnacha from a producer founded in 1958. The vineyards are
divided between the Ebro River at 1,200 ft. in elevation and the
hillside vineyards on the Moncayo Mountains, at 1,950 ft.. Clean and
crisp, with bright red fruit like wild strawberries. An easy drinking,
dry rosé: Snappy, bright and engaging to the last drop."
(2011 vintage rated 89 Points by The Wine Advocate)
Bodegas Volver Tarima 2011 - Alicante’ (Red) $8.99
"Made from 100% Monastrell (Mouvedre) grapes grown from 40-75 year old
gnarled vines in the rugged, arid climate of Alicante on the eastern
edge of La Mancha. This exceptional value from Spain brings some
serious black fruit, svelte tannin, stellar spice, and a medium to
fuller body profile. Tarima blossoms in your glass with notes of
licorice, chocolate and a hint of dark violets."(91 Points - The Wine Advocate)
Marquis de Riscal Rioja Reserva 2006 - (Red) $22.99"Made from Tempranillo, Graciano and Mazuelo grapes, with two years
aging in American-oak casks, from one of Rioja’s oldest wineries
(founded in 1858). Aromas of red currant, cherry, tobacco and
vanilla, with an herbal overtone. Round and silky in texture, offering
red fruit flavors that pick up a smoky nuance, finishing with a gentle
sweetness, soft tannins, and a smoky, meaty note.”
(87 Points - International Wine Cellar)
Savory & James Cream Sherry (Dessert Wine) $11.99
This blend of Pedro Ximénez and Palamino grapes comes exclusively from
select vineyards in the Zona de Jerez Superior, the world’s finest
area for production of sherry. It is aged through the time honored
Savory & James solera system which was established in 1780. When it
reaches full maturity; delicate and at the same time unusually rich
and delicious.
Thanks to all who attended, assisted and provided support on this
latest mission. For more information on how the Wine Armada can take
winearmada@gmail.com.
Salud!
