Cantalapiedra Viticultores Lirondo Verdejo

Cantalapiedra Viticultores Lirondo Verdejo 2022 – Castilla Y León

I discovered this producer through an article on where to enjoy wine in Madrid. The article mentioned the 2020 Cantalapiedra La Otea. However, when I contacted my sources, the only wine available from this producer was the Lironda. It took nearly three weeks to arrive, but I was extremely pleased with both the wine and its price. The Cantalapiedras have a lineage spanning several generations […]

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Parajes del Valle Macabeo made by Bodegas Parajes del Valle

Parajes del Valle Macabeo 2021

As this summers rain-soaked sun dips below the horizon and takes its warmth with it, I find myself cozied up with a glass of Parajes del Valle Macabeo – the ultimate rainy summer companion. With each sip, I can almost hear the wine whispering tales of its wild fermentation adventures, like a seasoned backpacker recounting stories from the road less traveled.  Just as the mosquitoes […]

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Pere Mata L’Ensamblatge Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2012

Pere Mata L’Ensamblatge Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2012

Pere Mata L’Ensamblatge Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2012 50% Xarello, 25% Macabeu, 25% Parellada The quality and transparency of these sparkling wines inevitably draw comparisons to Champagne. However, Pere is not trying to replicate Champagne. Instead, he dedicates himself to crafting Cava with a level of dedication and craftsmanship usually associated with the world’s finest sparkling wines. The results are truly inspiring. Hailing from Sant […]

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Ameztoi Ruebentis

Basque and Atlantic Rosés

Basque Region Ameztoi Ruebentis 2022: Located near Getaria, an ancient Basque fishing village in northeastern Spain, this wine is made from a blend of Hondarrabi Zuri and Beltza grapes. Its ruby color resembles the ancestral Txakoli crafted on the coast of the Cantabrian Sea. Grape Varieties: 50% Hondarribi Beltza and 50% Hondarribi Zuri This fresh and casual rosé exudes finesse and elegance with its delightful […]

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Aixa Red Vermouth

Aixa Red Vermouth

We all know the names Martini & Rossi and Cinzano, the popularized vermouths used primarily for Martinis and assorted cocktails. However, the Spaniards have taken Vermouth to another level. These tend to come from boutique vermouth specialists or serious winemakers who’ve added vermouth to their lineup. So, what is Vermouth? It is a fortified and aromatized wine that is macerated with a selection of herbs, […]

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Diving Deep into La Rioja

Recently, we had the honor of welcoming some truly special visitors, prompting me to delve into my treasured Rioja wine collection. It was an occasion to celebrate both the cherished classics and the exciting new additions. These wines perfectly embodied my philosophy, which centers around enjoying well-crafted, naturally grown wines that are ready to be savored. Each bottle was a delightful experience, and we were […]

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Tinto de Verano

From the New York Times June 28, 2023 By:Rebekah Peppler A drink built and named for summer, Spain’s effervescent tinto de verano (summer red wine) matches the season’s easy-going nature. At its most traditional, the recipe sticks to just three ingredients: ice, red wine and citrus soda. (La Casera, from Spain, is most classic, but 7Up and Sprite also work.) This version includes an option […]

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Baron de Ley Reserva, Rioja 2014 Magnum

Who doesn’t love a magnum…

Baron de Ley Reserva, Rioja 2014 Magnum I wasn’t familiar with this producer initially, but what caught my attention was the combination of price and bottle size. Who doesn’t love a Magnum? It’s perfect for a dinner party, as why open two bottles when one is easier? Baron de Ley is a relatively new producer, established in 1985, boasting an expansive vineyard spanning almost 1500 […]

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Bodegas Breca - Brega 2018

Elegance and Finesse

Bodegas Breca – Brega 2018 Elegance and finesse are words commonly associated with high-end, expensive French wines such as those from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, and the overly priced Napa Cabernet Sauvignons like Heitz, Stags Leap, and Opus 1. However, in this case, I’m referring to Spanish wine. Spain has been producing incredibly elegant and nuanced wines, utilizing heirloom, native grapes from 100-year-old vines and exceptionally […]

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Bernabeleva Camino de Navaherreros 2021

Bernabeleva Camino de Navaherreros 2021

I was searching for a Spanish white wine made from the Verdejo grape, similar in style and flavor to Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. However, the shop owner didn’t have any in stock but recommended another wine to me, primarily Albilio Real. This grape offers mostly neutral flavors and a light perfume aroma. Just a short distance west of Madrid, you’ll find Bodegas Bernabeleva. Nestled […]

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Viña Tondonia Rosado

War of the Rosés

Ah, the sweet anticipation of summer! The recent cold snap may have crushed my dreams of warmer days prematurely, but fear not, I believe we are finally crawling our way towards fairer weather and, most importantly, quaffable wines. Yes, my friends, the time has come to rejoice! But before we dive into the delightful world of rosé, let’s take a brief stroll through its captivating […]

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