November 2006                               

Back

Wines of the month - Paul DeRose

What’s Hot

Spanish wines are the buzz in the wine world at present with most regions producing their best wines ever. Spain has had a rich wine history, rivaling those of France and Italy, but only Sherry and Rioja have kept some of their vitality through time. The revitalization of Spanish wine is now in full swing and wine lovers are taking notice. Many successful, new producers have cropped up, but below I decided to highlight the wines of a famous, venerable Rioja producer (Marques de Riscal) who has been able to successfully change with the times, making tasty wines from several different Spanish wine regions.

2001 Marques de Riscal Rioja Reserva $16 *
Tastes like a Bordeaux, similar to a St. Emilion.

2004 Marques de Riscal Tempranillo $9
Tempranillo is also the main grape in the Rioja, but is more fruity in style in this red from the Toro region.

2005 Marques de Riscal Rueda Verdejo $8 *
Similar to a lighter-styled, lively Sauvignon Blanc.

* indicates available in Montgomery County