Teaching Spanish Wines for Summer

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)

Borsao Rosado 2012 - Campo de Borja (Rose’) $6.99
"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

your group on a unique voyage at your next event, please contact us at
winearmada@gmail.com.

Salud!

One for the Ages

We decided the time was right to pit two aged-red, heavyweights against each other. Italy vs. Spain in a contest for palate supremacy. In one corner was the 2000 Marziano Abbona Barolo. A 93-point "Wine for Kings" hailing from the hillsides of Piedmont. The opponent was a 1999 Faustino Rioja Grand Reserva, a classic Spanish beauty from a well-respected, 140-year old estate in the North-Central part of the country. The battlefield was in Wellington (Beef Wellington that is!).

The Barolo opened nicely, as the familiar wafts of roses, cherries and truffles filled the air. The first few sips gave us loads of darker berry fruits, followed by a long finish of licorice and earth flavors. 36 months in French and Slovenian oak, along with another year in the bottle before release, gives this Italian gem an extra-long lifespan. It's just simply superb, and another reminder why Barolos are quickly becoming some of the best "big" red wine bargains on the current market.

The Rioja felt like a journey back in time. From the old-school label design and bottle wrapped in netting, to the signature aromas of ripe red fruit and leather, this was a unique treasure to be enjoyed with special friends. The savory tastes of cranberry compote, along with a cushiony mouthfeel, virtually sashayed across the tongue. It was so enlightening to be treated to the uncanny freshness that comes with the characteristic aging of a Grand Reserva (28 months in French and American oak, plus another 44 in the bottle, before release from Faustino).

While there is the "apples and oranges" aspect of comparing these two great wines, the compatibility with Beef Wellington proved to be the deciding factor in this competition. While the Barolo was a worthy contender on its own, the still-intense tannins, along with bold fruit flavors, proved a bit too overpowering for the beef. The edge went to the Rioja, thanks to the lively acidity it was still able to deliver after 13 years. Along with its lighter red berry notes, the Spaniard takes the victory, thanks to being a perfect partner with the "Welly."

While Spain may have won this battle for red wine dominance, we selfishly look forward to the many pleasures to be gained in future skirmishes between these old-world super powers. 

Holiday Rescue Mission

Still looking for wines to celebrate the Holidays? Wine Armada to the rescue! Take a look below at some of the great offerings from Spain that we tasted, and approved, at our most recent December get-together.

Gran Sarao Brut Cava - Simple, yet elegant, fresh sparkler that won't break the bank (under $10!) and will launch your party with universal food friendliness. Traditional grapes of Xarel-lo, Parellada, Macabeo, with a little Chardonnay, makes for a solid frame of apples and toast, while finishing clean and demanding another sip.

Freixenet "Elyssia" Cava Gran Cuvee Brut - More complex than the Sarao, with sophisticated flavors of citrus, almonds and a sweet, spiciness that let's you know this is not your ordinary Freixenet in the black bottle. Fine choice for shifting your gathering into second gear.

2009 Vina Almirante Albariño Pionero Maccerato - Old-school Albariño, with a depth, and creaminess, not found in many of today's wines from Spain's cool climate region of Rías Baixas. Age has mellowed this white beauty, with its peachy notes leading to poached pear, followed by a long, honey-drizzled biscuit finish. Send a search party out for this one since availability may be limited.

Montecastrillo Rosado - One of the finest Rosados we've tasted in a long time, and maybe the only one we've tried from the prestigious Ribera del Duero region. High altitude, 100% Tempranillo gives this pink stunner a freshness and balance that wowed the crowd. Would make an unbelievable pairing partner with so many of your Christmas goodies.

Senda 66 Tempranillo - Unexpected flavors from this red from La Mancha threw us off course with jammy crimson fruit, intense spice leading to licorice-filled, oaky finish. This bold effort, from a small grower/winemaker cooperative, may not be for everyone, but will definitely please the "big wine" lover in the family. 


2004 Primitivo Quiles “Raspay” Tinto Alicante - This 100% Monastrell was a revelation for all “wine geeks” in attendance. A unique journey back in time that involved 80 year-old vines, combined with 12 months of American oak aging, to create an energetic expression of red berries, cherry vanilla with subtle spices. The incredible freshness of this 2004 rarity was amazing, making every sip totally enjoyable.

Lustau Pedro Ximenez “San Emilio” - We capped off the evening with this dessert in a glass. Molasses, raisins and candied nuts all danced on our palates from this superbly created sweet sherry. Despite this wine’s ample body, balance was properly maintained, with lively acidity that kept everyone coming back for more.

Have your own Spanish favorites for the Holidays? Please let us know at winearmada@gmail.com.

Salud!

New Label - Same Great Wine Value

While searching for easy-drinking Spanish reds, I spied an interesting new label that quickly grabbed my attention. Upon further inspection, I discovered it was my "old, reliable friend"  a new-look 2010 Castano. While I do like the improved packaging, I was relieved to find the wine inside was better than ever. Pure 100% old vine Monastrell sourced from the Yecla region of Spain, this rustic, juicy production is so consistent in quality year after year. Lively acidity on the back end adds to the impeccable balance making this red a perfect match for simple grilled items, like burgers or kabobs. Thanks again to Eric Solomon for importing yet another winner from the Iberian peninsula.

Red Alert!

All hands have been on deck to explore just a few of the many red wines Spain has to offer this season. With Springtime temperatures on the rise, so is our need for getting out of the galley and firing up the outdoor grill. While white wines offer a break from the heat, a red is usually called upon to successfully execute the perfect pairing with many of our summer favorites like burgers, brats and big-ass steaks.

So the next time you fell that primal urge to get outside and cook something, give these wines a shot:

2009 Picos del Montgo' - 90% Tempranillo 10% Syrah. A modern take on Tempranillo from La Mancha that bursts with dark cherry flavor, then sails to a long, smooth finish. Over-delivers for the price, but peaking now, so drink it by Labor Day.

Altavins Domus Pensi - Terra Alta's unusual blend of 40% Garnacha, 40% Cariñena and 20% Syrah balances ripe plum and black raspberry notes complemented with a burst of acidity.

2006 Predicador - From cult winemaker Benjamin Rome, a modern Rioja featuring dark, brooding fruit that finishes with a complex savory quality (think au jus and green olives). A big wine, with an iconic label, that can be appreciated by both novices and Robert Parker whom gave it 90 pts.

2010 Honoro Vera Garnacha - Another blockbuster out of Calatayud loaded with lush, juicy fruit and a backbone of solid acidity. A joyful expression from one of the most under-rated regions of Spain.

2010 Obalo Rioja - 100% Tempranillo that balances old world elegance with modern delivery of delicious fruit aromas and flavors. Balsamic notes provide a unique undercurrent to a wine worthy of its 90 pt. Wine Advocate score.

2006 Acustic "Brao" Montsant - This 50/50 blend of Garnacha and Samso, with 12-months of oak aging, confirms Acustic's position as a top-notch producer. A huge wine that needs at least 1-2 hours of decanting, will reward you with unforgettable layers of fruit, spice and minerals. Simply superb!

2009 Finca El Tesso Tempranillo - This chameleon, from the rarely seen (at least in our local wine stores) Ribera del Guadiana region, delivers an initial hit of bright red fruit, but eventually transforms to darker, earthier flavors. Resist the temptation to categorize this as a simple quaff and you'll be rewarded over time with something special.

All these, and other great values from Spain, are now available at Lukas Wine and Spirits. If there's a noteworthy Spanish red you've uncorked grill-side lately, please let us know!

Mad About Cava

The "Mad Men" TV series has both my wife and me hooked since the first episode. So it goes without saying, we were ready to celebrate the end of their nearly 18-month hiatus, with the season five premiere on Sunday night. Something with bubbles was in order to pair with a few charcoal grilled shrimp skewers. For the Wine Armada, Cava, the sparkling wine of Spain, was the obvious answer.

In keeping with the "Mad Men" theme, I hauled a bottle out of the cargo hold with an incredibly appropriate label. Once the cork was popped, Masach Lunatic Brut Cava exploded with aromas of fresh-cut limes and wet stones. More citrus, with some honey and ginger notes, came through on the palate, finishing with lively acidity that carried through to a clean, refreshing finish. For under $10, Cava once again establishes its place as one of the wine world's top bargains.

While we chose Spain's sparkler for a special occasion, Cava is right anytime, anywhere. Food friendliness, low alcohol levels and universal availability are all reasons to keep at least one bottle on hand.

For more information on Lunatic, and other wines by Masach, please follow this link:
http://www.cavasmasachs.com

MOnastrell - Where Spain Meets Missouri

A new personal discovery was made recently by the Wine Armada’s excursion to the Midwest Grape and Wine Conference. A Kansas City-based winery is now pushing the viticultural boundaries past the usual Missouri plantings of Norton, Chardonel, Vignoles, etc., and is successfully experimenting with more traditional varietals such as Cabernet Savignon, Malbec & Viognier. And, much to our delight, the results of those pioneering explorations can be quite tasty.

Spying a bottle of 2010 Mourvedre on one of conference tasting tables immediately captured our attention. We already knew this particular grape has been produced with great fanfare in the Jumilla, Yecla and Alicante regions of Spain, where it is known as Monastrell. Some high-end gems, like Bodegas El Nido Clio and Bodegas Olivares Jumilla Dulce have even risen the so-called bar of this common grape, which usually makes for delicious every-day wine, at an every-day price. Up until this moment, we had never seen Mourvedre/Monastrell from a Midwestern vineyard.

We were “blown out if the water” after the first sip, reveling in the depth of flavor, intense dark fruit and the long, smoky, pleasing finish. We were ecstatic after turning the bottle around to reveal the producer, Amigoni Estate, haled from western Missouri. We wanted to learn more and checked out the website for the interesting background story behind this “urban winery,” the other varietals they made available, and who was steering this noble ship into this uncharted territory.

Unfortunately, availability is currently non-existent near our home base of St. Louis. But what we do know is the next time we are sailing into the Kansas City area, Amigoni Urban Winery will definitely be one of our ports of call. A huge Wine Armada salute goes to Amigoni Estate for the unprecedented success of bringing one of our favorite Spanish grapes home to Missouri!

For more information, please check their website: http://winery.amigoni.com