For centuries, the area of Spain called Rioja has been known as a leader in producing high quality wine from the Tempranillo grape. Many have suggested however, that Rioja has rested on its reputation, and not continued to improve with modernization and globalization of the wine market. Other, less well known parts of Spain have lead the charge in increasing quality, from areas such as Priorat, Ribera del Duero, Jumillo, and Navarra.
First Place - Castell del Remei "Gotim Bru" (Costers del Segre) 2001. A blend of mostly Tempranillo (60%) with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, this was an outstanding value. Tasters described a port-like nose, with aromas and flavors of purple flowers, caramel, vanilla, cranberries, plum, raspberries and popcorn. Notes included "monster pepper". Very extracted & rich. About $10. Kristin's bottle.
Second Place - Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez "El Vínculo" (La Mancha) 2001. A very close second . . . everyone voted for this wine, but ended up with only one point less than the winner. Made from old vine Tempranillo, this wine was thick and velvety, yet retained definition and grip. Aromas of tomato, bright cherry and vanilla. Juicy berry fruits, with buttery and spicy qualities. Lingering finish. About $26. Andy's bottle.
Third Place - Bodegas Casa Castillo (Jumilla) 2000. Made from mostly Monastrell (Mourvedre), this bottle was a good value. Purple in color, with aromas of strawberry and mint. Tasters described sweeter fruits, berries, plum and an earthy quality. One taster noted that it was simple, but good. Unfiltered. About $12. Stephen's bottle.
The Others:
Capcanes "Mas Donis" (Montsant) 2001. A blend of 80% old vine Grenache and 20% Syrah, the wine exhibited purple-burgundy color. Very expressive nose of vanilla, oak, cherry, and curry. Port-like and thick, with leathery qualities along with ripe berries and peppery finish. Ali liked this one the least. David enjoyed this the most for its complexity. Received the fourth most points. About $14. David's bottle.
Finca Luzon Merlot (Jumilla) 2002. Ruby in color, this was lighter in weight, with one taster describing an almost white grape quality. Aromas of dill pickle, bell pepper, and the ocean. Flavors of apple, berries, light chocolate. Simple finish. Ali said that this one "needs more volume". Received no votes. About $10. Ali's bottle.
Coromina "Sinols" (Costa Brava) 2001. The first wine tasted, but clearly the least enjoyed. Nose of honey and apples, with a vegetal, dark musky quality. Highly acidic, peppery and dry, with inky metallic quality. One taster described a "scrap metal finish". Made from Carinena grapes. Rather high in alcohol at 14.5%. Received no votes. About $12. Sarah's bottle.
MAY 2004: SPANISH SHOWDOWN
