spanish wines

Spain is the largest wine-producing country and consumes 60% of that production, exporting only 10% to USA, according to the Torres Winery, the "Mondavis" of Spain. Spaniards consider wine a beverage; similar to Americans consuming Coke or Iced Tea, it is always served with meals. Their favorite pastime is stopping in a small neighborhood bar for a "tinto" (red wine) with a pincho (skewered foods) or a bocadillo (small sandwich)- these are always on the bars. "Albondigas" are an evening favorite. Spaniards don't eat dinner until 10pm so they are constantly nibbling while tapa hopping (click for recipes). When you are ready to settle up at the bar they count your toothpicks, as most bar food comes on one. The cheeses are usually sheep's milk and tend to be dry and full flavored, Mangego and Cabrales are the most known cheeses.

Its not unusual for Spanish wines to be aged in the bottle for years at the bodega (or winery) before being released. Winemaking in La Rioja (Spain's only DOC) follows strict regulations. These wines are made mostly from Tempranillo grapes, with some Graciano and Mazuelo. They are classified by the government as Sin Crianza (no aging), Crianza (minimum of 6 months in oak, and may not be sold until its third year), Reserva (12 months in oak and not released until the fourth year after the harvest), and Gran Reserva (minimum of 24 months in oak and doesn't leave the bodega until the sixth year after the harvest). With this amount of aging, Spanish wines are ready to drink when bought and they usually are a very good value.
Spain's sparkling wines (like Champagne) are also excellent. They are called Cavas after the DO (Denominacion de Origen) of Cava, which is near Barcelona.

Food, wine and ambiance make Spain unforgettable. People promenade and socialize in the streets and plazas every day. Don't miss visiting Spain for its unique blend of ancient and modern and its dazzling countryside and climate. In the mean time come to our Spanish Wine Dinner so you can taste the sun and terroir in the wines of Spain.