March Featured Wines – Celeste Verdejo Sur Lies, Rueda, Spain & Rioja Altos Ibericos Crianza, Spain

Familia Torres has very deep roots as a wine family but it was in 1870 that a winery was established when profits from the family shipping company allowed them to get into the commercial wine business. The Spanish civil war was a setback but recovery allowed them to eventually export wine in 1991. They join the world of environmentally, socially responsible and innovative producers.

2021 Celeste Verdejo Sur Lies, Rueda, Spain $17

This wine is fresh and aromatic . It is pale straw colored wine has a bouquet of nectarine, dried apricot and flint. It is generous in the mouth with flaors of honeydew melon, peach, coca butter, jasmine and a hint of marjoram. this is a great wine to serve with seafood or spicy foods. It is great with cheese. Alcohol: 13.0%

2017 Rioja Altos Ibericos Crianza, Spain $17

This is a classic, savory wine. It is considered a bright and contemporary red with smooth juicy tannins, elevated aromas and full-bodied fruit. Light aging in French and American oak creates a well-rounded palate and savory undertones of clove, green peppercorn and toasted bread. Think roasted or grilled meat. Alcohol: Alcohol: 14.5%

August Featured Wines – 2014 Cune Monopole Viura & 2011 Cune Rioja Crianza, Rioja, Spain.

Cune white

2014 Cune Monopole Viura, Rioja, Spain                            $15

The 2013 Monopole received a 90 rating from Wine Spectator and was ranked 64 in their 2014 Top 100 Wines so the prospects for the   latest vintage is very positive. This is a focused white which shows bright, juicy flavors of white peach and Meyer lemon, with herbal and mineral accents. The texture is quite rich, but crisp, citrusy acidity keeps this lively. This is a wine for sipping or can be a wonderful pairing with summer seafood.

Cune crianza

 2011 Cune Rioja Crianza, Rioja, Spain                              $15

2011 Cune Rioja Crianza is a smooth and supple Tempranillo. Crianza means it has been aged 2 years     with  at least 6 months in oak. This wine is clean and bright, with fresh red fruits, a hint of spice, lively acidity, balanced structure and a lingering finish. When I tasted this wine I had forgotten how delightful a good Crianza can be. This one would be great pairing for pulled pork or ribs.

Wines of the Month— 2010 Deusa Nai Albarino & 2008 Marques de Caceres Crianza

Featured wines for August are 2010 Deusa Nai Albarino and 2008 Marques de Caceres Crianza

 

 Marques de Caceres Deusa Nai Albarino,  Rias Baixas, Spain 2010

Label from Marques de Caceres Deusa Nai Albarino, Rias Baixas, Spain 201

Rias Baixas it the Spanish “Denominacion de Origen” (DO) for wines located in the Northwest region of Galicia, Spain. Albarino grapes are the most renown from this region. Deusa Nai clearly reflects true Albariño’s character. Thjis is a Limited production wine – just 6,600 cases. It has an attractive golden straw color with pale green highlights. The bouquet is fresh and fragrant with mineral notes mingling with a hint of grapefruit and mandarins. This wine has full flavor and refreshing acidity. Deusa Nai wines marry well with fish and seafood. It is ideal for sipping as an aperitif then serving with a meal. Alcohol: 13.5% $17.00

Marques de Caceres Crianza, Rioja, Spain 2008

label for Marques de Caceres Crianza, Rioja, Spain 2008Rioja is the DO for wines grown and produced in La Rioja in north central Spain. Most of the grapes grown in the region are Tempranillo and Garnacha. This is a rich, full-bodied wine made from 85% Tempranillo, and 15% Garnacha and Graciano grapes. Aging  in oak give this wine great depth. It has spicy aromas, berry fruit flavors and a velvety finish. There is a hint of roasted coffee and delicate spice. The balance is smooth and the tannins very soft. This wine needs to be opened an hour or so before drinking. It is a great pairing for grilled meats and hearty meals. Alcohol: 13% $14.00