It’s the weekend. Treat yourself to something special. Maybe an exotic wine from the Canary Islands, or perhaps a classic Tempranillo blend from Rioja or Ribera del Duero. Something to sip while the Paella simmers.
2015 Bodegas Monje Traditcional $20
Listan Negro, Listan Blanco, Negramoll
From Volcanic vineyards in the Canary Islands this wine smells of truffle, blackberry, minerals and other much more indefinable elements so characteristics of its varietal origin. It is a gutsy wine to drink, full of character and zest whit a slightly bitter finish that gives it a classy, original touch. Was $28 now $20
2015 Marqués de Murrieta Rioja Reserva $20
80% Temprinillo, 12% Graciono, 6% Mazuelo, 2% Garnacha
Estate fruit, 18 months in American oak. Ripe-blackberry, licorice, smoke and bourbon notes. Stained labels, better price! Was $28 now $20
2009 Abadia Retuerta Ribera del Duero $24
70% Tempranillo, 17% Syrah, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon
From the neighbor of Vega Sicilia. This red shows density and structure, with firm, well-integrated tannins and balsamic acidity supporting plum, currant, dark chocolate and mineral flavors. Polished and harmonious. Stained labels, better price! Was $30 now $24
2007 Lopez d’ Heredia Tondonia Rioja Reserva $44
75% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacha, 5% Graciano, 5% Mazeulo
A remarkable red from a Rioja icon, López de Heredia. There’s no concession to modernity, with fermentation in 140-year-old wooden vats plus six years’ ageing in oak casks, the rest in bottle. Spices, leather, cherries, balsamic and cigar box. Very complex spice and berry fruit, with a long savory finish.