Spain

The main red grape varieties in Spain are Tempranillo, Bobal, Garnacha (Grenache) & Monastrell. Despite most of Spain’s wine being red, 61.5% of Spain’s vineyards are white. This is because Spain also makes a lot of brandy and sherry. Spanish vineyards have a low yield (because of the dry climate), which makes Spain as only third in production behind France and Italy.

Map of Spain wine regions

Somehow, Spain seems to fly under the radar compared to its next door neighbor, France. Spain is actually the third largest wine producer in the world and has the most land dedicated to vineyards–over a million acres. Spanish wines range from great values to highly prestigious wines, such as Alvaro Palacios’ L’Ermita and Vega Silicia’s Unico.  Read about Spain’s wine regions here.
Milcampos Viñas viejas tempranito

Milcampos Viñas Viejas Tempranillo

Milcampos is Spanish for “One thousand fields”.  This red wine from the Ribera del Duero region of Spain is flavorful, with a bright red fruit on the nose and cherry flavor through the palate.  “Fresh, lively, intense and elegant”.  This wine has a medium to full body.

Ameztoi "Rubentis" Rosé Getariako Txakolina

Ameztoi “Rubentis” Rosé Getariako Txakolina

This rosé from the Basque region of Spain is dry, light-bodied, and crisp.  “Blended from both the white and red-skinned Hondarribi grapes and bottled with a touch of CO2, the freshly floral aromatics and palate-cleansing mineral spritz of the neo-cult phenom that is rosé Txakolina…shelves are empty…. ”  From Bottlerocket

Pair with tapas (or pintxos) like croquetas and patatas bravas. Serve with garlicky shrimp, grilled sardines or anchovies. Great with thinly sliced ham and cured meats, too.

Petalos, Bierzo 2010
Muga Rioja 2006, 2009
Creta Roble  Ribero Del Duero 2009
Nessa Albarino 2010
La Cartuja Priorat 2009