Good red for a great price!

I first tasted the 2005 Number One Berberana Tempranillo during our Spanish wine & tapas party earlier this fall, and it got a bit lost in the shuffle. But when I realized upon having it again recently that it $8 per bottle, I realized what a great find this is! This flavorful red has a deep berry flavor with hints of chocolate. It went nicely with the chicken & cheese quesidillas we had the other night (no recipe--they were from Trader Joes!).

Tempranillo is the grape used to make Rioja, probably the best known Spanish wine. This bottle does not specify the origins of the grapes, other than being from Spain--one reason the price is low. That said, many Riojas can be quite affordable. For instance, the 2003 Marques de Caceres Crianza Rioja ($12) emerged as the hands-down favorite at our tasting party. And if you want to try a Rioja, Richard commented that 2004 is a very good year to sample.

Comments: 15

Matt O. Nov 26, 2007, 9:14pm EST

Spanish wine is great. I lived in Portugal and going to Jerez to taste the Sherry and manzinilla (sp?) was a highlight.

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Susan E. Nov 26, 2007, 11:05pm EST

I haven't tried this one, but Tempranillo is one of my new favorites. It has a really wonderful mouth feel and after taste. Now I want to go open a bottle.

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David C. Nov 27, 2007, 8:18pm EST

Matt--must have been fun living there and trying that...haven't heard of the 2nd wine you mention.

Susan--tempranillo is very good, especially in the winter.

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Dianne G. Nov 28, 2007, 7:28am EST

I've never had Spanish wine, period. But now Im fired up to find it (which may be a challenge in itself).

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David C. Nov 29, 2007, 8:18pm EST

Dianne--if you like wine you're in for a treat if you try Spanish wine (generally speaking). There's a lot of value for the dollar. Riojas are good, or others with tempranillo. Garnacha can also be good, though it can be on the heavy side (let it breathe for a bit if it's too much at first). Albarino is a good white option. Most wine shops carry some Spanish wine, albeit not as much as France or California.

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donna h. Nov 29, 2007, 9:55pm EST

Just saying hi!!

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CyberGwen ! Nov 30, 2007, 3:04pm EST

I will put this on the list!

I wanted to stop by and thank you again for your help with the Downsizing Your Home Contest. I won!!!! If I can ever do the same for you, just let me know!

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