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Archive for category Spain

Wine of the Day – Viura

Jan 25

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Wine of the Day for January 25, 2010

Viura

Viura grape

Origin

This grape grows well in hot climates, and because of that is believed to have originated in the Middle East. However, since others also believe it originated in Aragon, Spain, it is included in Spanish week.

Style

This white grape prefers to be grown in dry, warm climates (hmm, I wonder if it would do well in Arizona), and in southern France is often made into a fortified wine (similar to Port). Viura itself as a wine should be drunk young.

Characteristics

Viura produces a light, dry and easy wine with floral bouquet and light straw color. Isn’t this image of the grape amazing? It is a beautiful picture all on its own!

Pairing

Whether you find a Viura varietal or a blend of white Rioja, enjoy this
Wine with yogurt, garlic dip, tapas and grilled fish.

Cheers to full glasses all around!

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Wine of the Day – Albariño

Jan 24

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Wine of the Day for January 24, 2010

Albariño

Starting out in a new week of grapes, I think I’ll focus on the Spanish originating grapes. Why? No special reason, other than I can live vicariously through my blogs since I haven’t had the opportunity to travel to these regions myself … yet!

Albarino

Origin

Albariño is called “wine of the sea” because it originates in northwest Spain in the Rías Baixas region, along the Atlantic coast of Spain. It is also grown extensively in the Monção region in northwest Portugal.

Style

Albariño is a white wine grape that thrives in the cool climate of the northern region of Spain and Portugal. This small green grape is thought to be related to Riesling.

Unlike many other European wines which are labeled after the region in which they are grown, Albariño is labeled as the grape (e.g. tempranillo grape creates Rioja wine and is labeled in Europe as Rioja).

Characteristics

This grape produces a golden color wine, with aromas of peach, apricot, and honeysuckle similar to Viognier and Gewürztraminer, along with strong floral notes and a crisp acidity.

Pairing

Enjoy this wine with fried chicken, seafood pastas (lighter sauces) and tilapia.

Bunco party

As I mentioned in the post yesterday, I had a Bunco game at my house last night: lots of food (yummy sushi from Koreanas in Appleton), beverages and of course, we did play Bunco. I opened a Pinot Grigio, Muscat and Cabernet Sauvignon instead of the Misti Bianco, so I’ll have to let you know at a later date (after 1/28) more about the Misti Bianco.

If you have not yet had the opportunity to play Bunco, find a game. It is great fun and gives you a chance to win a little money too!

Cheers to full glasses all around!

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Wine of the Day – Tempranillo

Jan 6

Posted by greatWineSource in Reds, Spain, Wine of the Day | 2 Comments

Wine of the Day for January 6, 2010

Tempranillo

I try to get my Wine of the Day blogs updated first thing in the morning, but I was so-o-o-o tired this morning, I enjoyed a few more minutes of sleep. So, better late than never, today’s wine of the day: Tempranillo (pronounce the “nillo” as “nee-o”)

Tempranillo grapesA black grape varietal, Tempranillo is native to Spain and is the main grape used in producing Rioja (wines originating from La Rioja, Spain). This varietal makes full bodied, flavorful, age-worthy red wines and is highly regarded as a “noble grape”. Tempranillo is often blended with Grenache and some modern Riojas are being blended with Cabernet Sauvignon.

While originating in Spain, Tempranillo has expanded and is now grown in other wine producing regions, including California, Australia, South America, among others.

Common aromas and flavors you will find in wines made with this luscious grape are cherry, plum, vanilla, oak, spice, and you can pair this beautiful red wine with paella, strong cheeses such as fontinella, morbier or if you want to go really simple, sharp cheddar.

As I’ve said from time to time, I’m learning about wines as I go. So many wines, so little time! I only first tried Tempranillo a few months ago, and I was so pleasantly surprised. It’s amazing how many wines are now being added to my favorites list! How many are on yours?

Cheers to full glasses all around!

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Wine of the Day – Cava

Dec 31

Posted by greatWineSource in Spain, Sparkling, Wine of the Day | 1 Comment

Wine of the Day for December 31, 2009

Cava

Cava is the Spanish version of Champagne, at least it started out that way, but Spanish winemakers believe that Cava is different enough from its French sister to warrant its own moniker, named after “cave” in the Catalan region of Spain.

Cava is made in the same method as Champagne, however, Cava is made with one or more specific white grape varietals: Parellada, Xarel lo, Macabeo, and Chardonnay. Rose’ Cava blends these white varietals with others such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Tempranillo to provide the light rose beautiful hue and complexity to the wine.

Cavas have persistent mousse of bubbles, and generally aromas of apple, honey with a light touch of sweetness. Again, as with Champagne, Cava can range from Sweet to Extra Brut (very, very dry)!

A good pairing for your New Year Festivities and Cava would be Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese. If you’d like this recipe, let me know!

Enjoy, have a very SAFE and Happy New Year and Cheers to full glasses all around!

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