In last week’s column, I wrote about a number of New Wave Spanish wines which were all available from an exciting independent Glasgow based merchant. Today, I’ll mention a few bottles which capture the essence of Spain but are more readily available from some of the bigger retail outlets. I’m still avoiding Rioja and Cava, not because they’re not exciting, but only because you’ll have had them on many, many occasions in the past. Spain is a brilliantly diverse country in terms of wine production, and we should embrace and reflect that diversity in our wine purchases.
Fresquito Pedro Ximenez 2016 (M&S, £9). This dry, unoaked Andalucian wine is made using the Pedro Ximenez grape more usually associated with sherry production. It is beautifully fresh, and perfect with tapas on a balmy Glasgow afternoon in June.
Scala dei Priorat 2015 (Waitrose, normally £19.99, currently £15.99 until July 10). Priorat is a very traditional region in Spain but this wine is, without a doubt, part of the New Wave movement. It’s made using the Garnacha grape, so the ABV (alcohol by volume) is quite high at 15%. On the palate, however, it’s very smooth and approachable.
Pizarras de Otero Rose 2016 (Majestic, £8.49). Bierzo is a region in northern Spain between Galicia and Castile. This pinky drinky is made from Mencia grapes which normally produce a good, robust red. It’s quite dark in colour, and nice and dry on the palate as well as being very food friendly.
And this weekend’s bargain is the Carta Roja Grand Reservada 2010 (Sainsbury’s, £5.50). In terms of the bottle, this has the appearance of an expensive Tempranillo from Rioja. In fact, it’s a Monastrell from Jumilla. It’s soft, velvety and approachable as well as being lovely and incredibly good value for money ... and it's also available in magnums!
Enjoy.
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