Spanish Wine

Winemaker Description 

This small-production Albarino comes from a mix of young and very old vines, made to be a pure, straight-to-the-point take on the bracing variety! The citrus blossom top notes, and core fruit character of apple & nectarine, come with a wash of powerful, saline-like acidity into the well-balanced finish, making for a mouthwateringly delicious experience.

Pedro’s Albariño collection is from the Salnés Valley hamlet, Meaño. If I were to draw a comparison to Pedro’s wines and our other growers in Rías Baixas, I’d say they’re more powerful than those of Manuel Moldes and, perhaps of equal power to Xesteiriña, but are more contained and classically styled than the latter. Pedro’s Albariños have broad shoulders, a compact core and megathrust. This may be partly due to the older average vine age of his many parcels, and, in some cases, deeper topsoil. Moldes’ cru Albariños are on schist, with his Afelio on the mostly granite. Xesteiriña harvests from a single plot of extremely hard metamorphic rock with almost no topsoil. The bedrock is somewhere between medium- to high-grade metamorphic rock: some looks like gneiss while others look like schist. Xesteiriña’s rock type is probably the rarest of all in Salnés with vineyards planted.

Winemaker Description 

Aged following an oxidative ageing for 12 years in Bodega La Campana in Jerez de la Frontera.

Dark bronze colour with golden rim. Pungent nutty aromas with a smoky wood background. Rich flavours of bitter chocolate, walnuts and baked chestnuts. This Oloroso wine has an intense, concentrated aftertaste, lightened by a tangy acidity.

Our Professional Review

Oscar Garcia Moncada | Senior Wine Buyer | This lovely family-run winery, tucked into Catalunya’s Costers del Segre DO, is among the most eco-friendly and sustainability-focused estates I’ve visited in recent years. Troballa Arrels is 100% Garnatxa Negra (Grenache Noir), delivering classic Mediterranean character: garrigue herbs, figs, black olives, and dried aromatics layered over a savory palate. Perfect with grilled sausages served over white beans dressed in olive oil and cracked black pepper.

Winemaker Description 

Notes of plums, cherries, strawberries and fresh oranges, subtle hints of cassis, raspberries and blackberries. There is a mineral touch on the nose and a saline and toasted touch stands out on the palate, with a very fresh and balsamic finish. An original and explosive wine.

Rocky limestone clay soil of very low fertility. Altitude of the vineyards: 800m above sea level. Spontaneous fermentation, aged 6 months, 1/3 of the grapes fermented and aged respectively in clay amphorae, French oak barrels and stainless steel tanks.

Winemaker Description 

Brick red deep covered. Clean on the nose with spicy aromas, toasts and dried fruits. Well structured, savory, ample and well balanced. Pleasent finish and harmonized flavors. Complex retronasal, in which we find balsamics and good oak. Finishes elegantly.

Bodegas Sonsierra is a cooperative winery with deep roots in the village of San Vicente de la Sonsierra, one of the most storied wine villages in Rioja Alta. Perched above the Ebro River with a medieval castle overlooking the vineyards, San Vicente is known for producing Tempranillo of exceptional character — structured, aromatic, and built for aging. Sonsierra has been the custodian of this tradition for decades, crafting wines that offer remarkable quality and authenticity at an honest price.

The Bodegas Sonsierra Rioja Reserva Rioja Alta 2017 750ml is a classic expression of aged Rioja Tempranillo. An attractive maroon color with a ruby edge, it opens with an elegant bouquet of balsamic notes, complex spiciness, hints of ripe dark fruit, and a subtle aroma of toast from its time in oak. On the palate it is well-rounded and velvety, with a pleasant toasty finish that lingers with grace. The 2017 vintage in Rioja Alta was warm and concentrated — producing wines of depth and structure that reward patience.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Attractive maroon with a ruby edge
• Nose: Elegant balsamic notes, complex spice, ripe dark fruit, and a hint of toast
• Palate: Well-rounded and velvety with good structure
• Finish: Pleasant, toasty, and lingering

Wine Details

• 100% Tempranillo
• Rioja Alta DOCa, San Vicente de la Sonsierra, Spain
• Reserva — minimum 3 years aging (1+ in oak, 1+ in bottle)
• Vintage: 2017 | 750ml
• Pairs with: game, roast meat, stews, aged cheeses, wild mushroom dishes

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Luis Guitierez of The Wine Advocate writes 93+ Points | They haven't produced this wine since 2019, and there are substantial changes. There's no Treixadura in the 2022 Viño Branco Dos Canotos; they didn't do any skin contact; and it didn't go through malolactic, because it has a low pH (3.0) and high acidity. It matured in chestnut cask with full less until bottling in May 2023, quite early. The wine is dominated by the Albariño (around 40%, the rest, Lado, Caíño Branco and Loureira) in the aromatics, floral and herbal. It has around 11.7% alcohol, a very tasty and vibrant palate with pungent flavors, and very good persistence and length. There are only 910 bottles.

Winemaker Description 

Lovely lemon and peach aromas with hints of honeysuckle and white pepper, super fresh, light-bodied, airy, silky on the palate.

Experience the Elegance of Siana by Ramon Canals

Producer Description 

The red grape varieties Garnatxa and Samso from Els Guillamets vineyards are the base for the Siana Terrer.

On the nose it presents an intense and elegant aroma of ripe red fruit and jam, with hints of anise, delicate touches of new oak and mineral notes. Palate: In the mouth is well-rounded, pleasant, lingering and powerful. Long finish which brings out its special spicy character.

Gastronomy: Recommended with any white or red meats (fowl, wild game, stews, roast lamb, beef...),with stewed legumes and cured and blue cheeses.

GOLD MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2024
90 POINTS – TIM ATKIN MASTER OF WINE 2024

Memo Summary Notes

Produced by the renowned Ramon Canals family, this wine is a vibrant tribute to the unique "terrer" (terroir) of the Montsant DO, which surrounds the Priorat region like a horseshoe and offers a similar mineral complexity with a more approachable profile.

• Grilled Fare: Excellent with grilled sausages (butifarra), lamb chops, or gourmet burgers.

• Tapas: Pairs perfectly with patatas bravas, cured meats, or stuffed piquillo peppers.

• Vegetarian: Hearty roasted vegetable medleys or lentil stews.

Craftsmanship Behind Siana by Ramon Canals

Siana by Ramon Canals embodies exceptional craftsmanship in the world of Montsant wines. Created with precision and passion, this 2023 vintage showcases the winemaker's expertise. Ramon Canals focuses on delivering balanced flavors and aromas, which makes Siana a standout choice for both casual drinkers and serious wine enthusiasts. Because of the meticulous cultivation of the grapes, every bottle contains a true essence of the Montsant region. It’s not just wine; it’s a testament to craftsmanship.

Flavor Profile of Siana

The flavor profile of Siana is nothing short of impressive. With a harmonious blend of fruitiness and earthy notes, this wine captivates the palate. You will notice rich black cherry and plum flavors that burst through with each sip, complemented by subtle hints of spice. However, it’s the smooth finish that leaves a memorable mark. This complexity not only excites the taste buds but also pairs beautifully with various dishes, making Siana a versatile choice for any occasion.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying Siana, the pairing possibilities are endless. This Montsant wine is perfect with grilled meats, hearty pasta dishes, or even rich cheeses. Because of its robust flavor, it can easily hold its own against a variety of cuisines. For the best experience, serve it slightly chilled, allowing its aromas to open up. So whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, Siana by Ramon Canals promises to elevate your wine experience.

Introduction to Ramon Canals

Ramon Canals has gained recognition for producing exceptional wines, and Siana is no exception. This Montsant 2023 vintage showcases the passion and dedication of the winemaker. With its rich flavors, this wine captivates both novice drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs. You will find delightful notes of dark fruits and subtle spices, making it versatile enough for various pairings, whether with a robust meal or a quiet evening at home.

The Characteristics of Montsant Wine Region

Montsant is a prestigious wine region known for its unique terroir that grants wines a distinct character. The combination of diverse soils and a Mediterranean climate contributes to the richness of the grapes used in Siana. This wine reflects the essence of its origin, showcasing a perfect blend of tradition and modern winemaking techniques. Therefore, when you sip this wine, you are not just enjoying a drink, but also experiencing the heart of Montsant.

Why You Should Choose Siana

Siana by Ramon Canals is an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore Spanish wines. This exquisite bottle embodies quality and flavor, perfect for special occasions or everyday enjoyment. Its balanced structure and smooth finish make it memorable. So, whether you are serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it alone, Siana is sure to impress. Try this splendid wine today and elevate your wine experience!

Winemaker Description 

Aromatic and elegant expression of an otherwise deep and dark flavored grape. Delicious aromas of flowers, red berries and black cherries, shadowed by notes of orange peel, spices and earth. Supple on the palate with silky tannins and a refreshingly mineral finish.

It has a bright ruby color with the grip of the fine tannins and an herbal touch that provides freshness.

Winemaker Description

Dark ruby in the glass, this wine has a nose of black cherry, cranberry and aniseed. It is very soft on impact, with flavors of raspberry, cassis, milk chocolate and licorice. Satiny tannins hold off on the palate at first, make their presence known and then slip away in time for a bright finish. 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2018 

96 Points James Suckling | Mineral, macadamia, pine nuts, white sesame and white fruit with a touch of spice. A bright and linear Capellania that shows excellent tension, freshness and complexity. Long and appetizing finish. More taut and gastronomic now. 100% viura. Drink now or hold. 

95 Points Tim Atkin | The cooler 2018 vintage was ideally suited to the production of high-quality whites like this pure Viura from a six-hectare plateau at 485 metres within the extensive Castillo Ygay estate. Modern, perfumed and poised, it has finely integrated French oak, fennel, thatch and beeswax aromas, herbal complexity and a nutty, fragrant, citrus zest palate. 2025-40 

94 Points Wine Advocate | To catch up with the current vintages that I shall review every 12 months from now on, I tasted two vintages of some of the wines, including the whites. The 2018 Capellanía is 100% Viura from the plot that names the wine. The vineyard is six hectares planted in 1945 at 485 meters altitude, the highest in the estate. It fermented in concrete, the first vintage to do so, as it was fermented in stainless steel until then, and matured in second-use French oak barrels for 22 months. It spent a further seven months in concrete, a long élevage, with the idea to produce a structured white with aging potential, while keeping the varietal character. The wine is subtle and elegant, following the path of all the wines in the portfolio here, still marked by the élevage in oak, spicy and smoky. The palate is balanced, with a nice combination of fruit and oak, with a soft texture, clean, focused and tasty. It has 14% alcohol, a pH of 3.1 and 6.10 grams of acidity. 21,836 bottled and 688 magnums produced. It was bottled in July 2022. This is now released with the Gran Reserva back label.

Expert Review - Vintage 2015

Mike DeSimone of the Wine Enthusiast writes 95 Points | Dark ruby in color, this wine has a nose of black cherry, cedar chest and violet candy. A pleasant floral note is a constant companion to blackberry, anisette, clove and dark-chocolate flavors that are enclosed in a shell of muscular tannins. A soft note of pomegranate permeates the grippy finish. Drink through 2035. 

Winemaker Description 

A 1er Cru RBD from Yolanda and Carolina García Viadero whose mission is to place the Tinto Fino varietal among the world’s best.  Bursts of blackberry and cassis, relaxed opulence and richness.

Winemaker Description 

Tawny gold colour, this elegant and classic Amontillado is pungent and aromatic, with oaky notes. Nutty on the palate with a hint of sweetness and a lingering dry finish. Winemaker Description. 

Expert Review 

Wine Spectator 93 Points | This has lots of range, with ginger, date, toasted almond, blood orange, singed sandalwood and green tea notes all allied to finely beaded acidity, letting everything drape beautifully on the finish. Alluring on its own, but this really begs for some Cabrales. Drink now.Wine Advocate 91 points The NV Almacenista Jose Luis Gonzalez Obregon Oloroso del Puerto produced from Palomino grapes and aged in Puerto de Santa Maria by the sea, has a chestnut color with a green-amber edge, clean sweet notes of roasted nuts, cake and oranges, a medium- to full-bodied palate with a smoky character and great length.

Winemaker Description 

Tio Pepe Fino Sherry is a star bright, pale golden color. It is elegant and distinctive, with fresh bread and almond aromas. The palate is full bodied, crisp and very dry, with a complex, long finish.

Perfect with canapes and tapas, Asian food, seafood and all fish based dishes. Try it with caviar, oysters, anchovies or tuna carpaccio. Winemaker Description. 

Expert Review 

James Suckling 90 Points | This is the prototypical fino sherry with all the salty and yeasty character you expect. Also dried-apple, pear and lemon-zest character. Generous, but very dry and salty on the palate with a refreshing touch of austerity. Where are the olives? Drink now, if possible from a freshly opened bottle. 

Winemaker Description 

A pale and delicate light dry Sherry that is light in color. Commonly served cold as an aperitif, many consider this Spanish wine to be the world's finest Sherry. Finos are excellent when young. A delicate pale cocktail sherry noted for its fine, dry after taste. 

Expert Review

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | Aromas of lemon-lime, orange blossom and sliced ginger arise from the glass. Ginger transitions to the palate alongside flavors of passion fruit, mango and a pleasing hint of rose petal that lingers on the taste buds. — Mike DeSimone 

Winemaker Description 

Tempranillo, Syrah

ONNA is a red wine made with the Tempranillo and Syrah variety of old vineyards of organic agriculture of our land, the Penedés. The must has macerated and fermented with the skins over a period of 2 weeks. Subsequently the wine has remained 3 months in French oak barrels of Allier. It is a fresh wine with aromas of red and black fruits with light spicy, pleasant and sweet notes.

• GOLD MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2022
• GOLD MEDAL – CATAVINUM WORLD WINES & SPIRITS COMPETITION 2022
• GOLD MEDAL – CATAVINUM WORLD WINES & SPIRITS COMPETITION 2021
• GOLD MEDAL – INTERNATIONAL WINE AWARDS 2021

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Vinous 92 Points | The 2023 Brut Nature Reserva blends Macabeo and Xarel·lo from Penedès and was aged 2 years on lees. Citrus, lime, soft herbs and a nutty note define the nose. Dry and vibrant, it has fine, well-integrated bubbles, a touch of malic grip and a saline finish. 

Winemaker Description 

The grapes are pressed directly cold and without de-stemming.

Base wine aged for 7 months in stainless steel tanks and 500L French oak barrels.

Second fermentation is carried out with concentrated must from our own vineyards and minimum aging of 20 months on lees in the bottle.

Manual riddling on pupitres and disgorging without freezing. Zero dosage. 

Memo Summary Notes

The AT Roca Rosat Reserva Brut Nature 2023 is a high-quality sparkling rosé from the Corpinnat collective in the Penedès region of Spain. Crafted by Agustí Torelló Roca, this wine is a standout for those who appreciate precision, organic viticulture, and a bone-dry finish.

You might notice it isn't labeled as "Cava." AT Roca is part of Corpinnat, an elite group of producers who broke away from the Cava DO to maintain stricter quality standards, including 100% organic grapes, hand-harvesting, and vinification entirely on the estate.

Pairing: Its high acidity and bone-dry profile make it incredible with sushi, oily fish (like salmon), or light Mediterranean rice dishes. It’s also sharp enough to cut through fried appetizers or salty cured meats.

Winemaker Description - Vintage 2022

The aromas on the nose are fresh, ranging from white fruit such as pear and apple, to tropical fruit like pineapple and plum.

Fresh and indulgent opening, with a tasteful balance between sweetness and acidity and fruity notes of acidic and white fruit appear in the finish.

Pairs with exotic flavors such as Thai Tom Yum soup, Peruvian sea-bass ceviche, Mexican quesadillas or Labneh and Tahini served with pita bread. Also, with traditional ham and cheese French omelet, buttered grilled corn on the cob, chicken pie, or wild mushroom risotto and even dessert like tarte Tatin or crema catalana.

An organic rosé cava, crafted with the Traditional Method and aged on lees for a minimum of 35 months. A gentle skin maceration gives the wine its delicate color. Bearing the seal of Elaborador Integral (Integral Producer), it is made from vines rooted in ‘sauló’, a sandy granitic soil, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Mataró is the most genuine variety in Alella and it is also the name of the Capital of the Maresme area

“A return to the origins with the first grape variety used for cava” – Pujol-Busquets family

ART LAIETÀ D’ALTA ALELLA
Cava type: Brut Nature / Organic vintage cava
Integral Producer: 100% produced on the winery’s property
Grape varieties: Mataró (mourvèdre)
Zone of Origin: Comtats de Barcelona – Serra de Mar

It's a fantastic sparkling wine that truly highlights the quality and potential of Spanish Cava when made from a specific vineyard (single-estate) and with a focus on organic, natural production.

Winemaker Description 

Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, Sonsierra Crianza is the perfect companion. Aged for 12 months in oak barrels, it offers a balanced blend of ripe fruits, vanilla, and cocoa. Ideal with meats, legumes, or semi-cured cheeses. A wine that’s always a great choice!

The Sonsierra Crianza is a classic expression of 100% Tempranillo, made from carefully selected grapes hand-harvested from the slopes of the Sierra Cantabria in the heart of Rioja Alta. These vineyards benefit from ideal conditions that ensure the production of high-quality grapes, creating a wine that balances tradition with a modern winemaking approach.

The winemaking process starts with a cold maceration of 24 hours, followed by an 8-day fermentation in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature to extract the best fruity aromas. After fermentation, the wine undergoes 12 months of aging in oak barrels (70% American oak and 30% French oak), where it gains its characteristic complexity and balance. Finally, the wine rests for a minimum of 3 months in the bottle, allowing its flavors to mature and harmonize.

With a bright ruby-red color, the Sonsierra Crianza opens with a complex bouquet of ripe red fruits, combined with hints of vanilla, cocoa, and toasted coffee from its time in the barrel. On the palate, it is smooth and balanced, with well-integrated tannins and a long, lingering finish that evokes flavors of ripe fruit and vanilla.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

James Suckling 92 Points | A deliciously dark-fruited tempranillo that has aromas and flavors of grilled herbs, charcoal and black plums. Hints of soy, too. It’s full-bodied with ripe, mellow tannins.

Varieties

Winemaking

Expert Review - Vintage 2022 

Luis Gutierez of The Wine Advocate writes 92 Points | The white 2022 Terroir Històric Blanc is the regional wine that blends grapes from nine different villages, 75% Garnacha Blanca and 25% Macabeo from different soils, slate, clay, granite and alluvial. The bunches fermented for three to five days in stainless steel, and the wine matured in stainless steel for six months. It has 13% alcohol and mellow acidity, 4.5 grams. It has a spectacular nose that is very expressive, aromatic, clean and open with pungent notes of pollen and beeswax. It's juicy, round and clean with persistent and pungent flavors, not very high in acidity, eminently Mediterranean. Really impressive.

Sonsierra Tempranillo Rioja Alta Cosecha — San Vicente de la Sonsierra 2024

Bodega Viñedos de Sonsierra is one of Rioja Alta’s most storied cooperatives — founded in 1962 when over 240 grape farmers in San Vicente de la Sonsierra pooled their vineyards to make a shared dream come true. Generations later, those same family vineyards — cultivated with practices perfected over centuries in the high-altitude, continental climate of Rioja Alta — produce this Cosecha Tempranillo: a pure, honest expression of the grape that defines Rioja. At under $13, it is one of the most exciting values in all of Spanish red wine.

Cherry red with a vivid purple rim. The nose is expressive and varietal: blackberry, raspberry, and violet, with a swirl revealing licorice and mineral notes characteristic of Rioja Alta’s iron-rich soils. On the palate, it is fresh and lively, with sweet fruit, a retronasal loaded with berry and licorice, and a clean, inviting finish that makes you reach for another glass.

• Producer: Bodega Viñedos de Sonsierra, San Vicente de la Sonsierra, Rioja Alta, Spain
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa — Cosecha
• Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, raspberry, violet, licorice, mineral, fresh berry finish
• Best Paired With: Rice dishes, red meats, legumes, river fish, charcuterie, soft cheeses

A cooperative-grown Rioja Alta Tempranillo at an honest price — Sonsierra is the benchmark for what everyday Cosecha can be.

Bodegas Valduero Una Cepa — Ribera del Duero 2019/2020*

• *Mixed inventory - you will be delivered either vintage 2019 or 2020. If you prefer a particular vintage text us at 212-724-6767.
• Bodegas Valduero is one of Ribera del Duero’s most respected estates — and Una Cepa (“one grape”) is their purest expression of the appellation’s defining variety: 100% Tempranillo, aged 18 months in barrel and a further 12 months in bottle before release. Ribera del Duero sits on a high plateau at over 800 metres elevation in Castilla y León, where the extreme continental climate — scorching days, cold nights, and a short growing season — produces Tempranillo of exceptional concentration, structure, and longevity. The 2019 vintage delivered outstanding conditions across the appellation. Wine Spectator awarded it 92 points; Decanter 90. Deep ruby in color. The nose is expressive and classic: blue fruit, tobacco, and cocoa. On the palate, it is lively and expressive, with fresh black cherry and currant flavors backed by cocoa, spice, and licorice, framed by well-integrated tannins, rounded structure, and a long, lively finish of real elegance. Drink now through 2030.

Expert Reviews - Viintage 2019

Wine Spectator 92 — “Lively and expressive. Black cherry and currant flavors are fresh and juicy, backed by cocoa, spice and licorice notes. Well-integrated tannins and fresh acidity give this a balanced structure.”

Decanter 90 — “Blue fruit, tobacco and cocoa nose. The palate is juicy and savoury with rounded tannins and well-integrated alcohol. Long, lively finish. Rather classic.”

• Producer: Bodegas Valduero, Ribera del Duero, Castilla y León, Spain
• Vintage: 2019
• Appellation: Ribera del Duero DO
• Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
• Aging: 18 months in barrel + 12 months in bottle
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blue fruit, tobacco, cocoa, black cherry, currant, spice, licorice, rounded tannins
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2030
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, beef stews, suckling pig, aged Manchego, hearty game dishes

A 92-point Ribera del Duero at an honest price — Valduero Una Cepa is the benchmark for what single-varietal Tempranillo can be.

Winemaker Description 

Luminous amber colours. The aromas are pungent, almondy and persistent. On the palate it is slightly sweet, refined and with hints of dry flavours from the ageing. In short, the characteristics of an exceptional amontillado.

Straw-yellow, bright and transparent . Pungent and delicate. Light and dry on the palate.

Expert Review — Vintage 2022

Wine Advocate — 93 Points | Herbal and spicy, keeping freshness while reflecting the dry, warm vintage conditions. A powerful white with excellent aging potential. An unusual and compelling blend of 86% Sauvignon Blanc and 14% Verdejo — a little à la Bordeaux. Fermented and matured on lees in barrel for seven months.

Winemaker Description

Clean and bright, with fragrant aromas of white flowers, elder, and acacia, layered with refreshing notes of ginger and citrus — mandarin, grapefruit, and lime. On the palate, stone fruits emerge: apricot, nectarine, and ripe melon. Persistent, creamy, and unctuous, with fresh, crystalline acidity that makes this a highly age-worthy wine.

• Producer: Abadía Retuerta
• Classification: Vino de Pago (Spain’s highest single-estate designation)
• Appellation: Sardon del Duero, Castilla y León, Spain
• Blend: 86% Sauvignon Blanc, 14% Verdejo
• Aging: Barrel-fermented, 7 months on lees
• Vintage: 2022
• Format: 750ml

Winemaker Description

Onion skin color wine with very fine and persistent bubbles. Flavors of red fruits, bread and spices. An elegant and refreshing wine.

Winemaker Description 

Appearance : Opaque red-black. Scarlet rim. Aroma: Initially closed. The wine opens to an amalgam of minerals and unctuous super-ripe berries. Palate : Deep, rich and ripe. Black fruits (cherries, plums) give way to hints of liquorice, molasses and a hint of cinnamon. Solid tannins and focused acidity with a long finish.

Tasting notes | Deep, rich, and ripe. Black fruits (cherries, plums) give way to hints of licorice, molasses, and a hint of cinnamon. Solid tannins and focused acidity with a long finish.

Expert Review

Zekun Shuai writes: Dusty wood spices, white stone fruit and a touch of vanilla. This is fresh and creamy on the palate, with a medium to full body and a lengthy, creamy finish. Still energetic. Drink or hold. - James Suckling 91

Winemaker Notes

A CLASSIC, AMIABLE CASK-FERMENTED WHITE WINE CHARACTERISED BY ITS ELEGANT NOTES

The strength of all that is traditional. Produced by the white grape variety that is most characteristic of the Rioja region. Its classic composition means that it can be drunk immediately or laid down for later. A wine that typifies our region A very Riojan white wine.

It remains over its own lees for a minimum of three months in Central European acacia and French and American oak barrels. Each of these contributes its own aromas and fragrances. To taste it is to experience the impact of freshness alongside beautifully elegant notes. It is a wine that is both rich and smooth.

VARIETIES: Viura 100%.

Fermented on its own fine lees in new French Allier, American Missouri and Central European Acacia oak barrels. After fermentation it was kept in the barrels in the presence of the lees for three months.

TASTING NOTES: Pale greenish yellow colour with slight oak highlights. On the nose, the subtle fragrance of toasted oak is perceived on a honeyed background of fresh fruit, seasoned with the peculiar aroma of ripe banana provided by the acacia. On the palate it offers a fresh and acidic entry, combined with the slight taste nuance of oak, under which the caramel sensation persists.

Producer Description 

Las Beatas is a spectacular 1.9 hectare property which Telmo and Pablo have invested tremendous time and energy: 15 years of renovative viticultural work took place before a single bottle was made.

There are at least ten grape varieties grown on eight terraces, predominantly Tempranillo with 30% Garnacha, some Viura and traces of many other rare, perhaps unidentified cultivars, all planted on cold sandy soils. Las Beatas was made and aged in a single 1200 liter old French foudre. This is a refined, elegant and fluid wine with great complexity and nuance that will age beautifully. 

Gomez Cruzado Viña Dorana Reserva — Alto Najerilla, Rioja, Spain 2018

Gomez Cruzado is one of Rioja's most exciting modern producers, based in Haro and dedicated to rescuing the great wines of yesteryear — old bush vines, high-altitude sites, and traditional blends that honor the region's heritage. Viña Dorana is named for a historic brand from 1930 and sourced from old bush vines in the Alto Najerilla, grown at 600–710 meters above sea level in the triangle formed by the villages of Cordovín, Badarán, and Cárdenas. The 2018 vintage — a cool, fresh year — produced a wine of classical harmony and serious structure. Wine Advocate awarded it 94 points; Jeb Dunnuck 92; James Suckling 92. At $35.99, it is one of the most compelling values in serious Rioja Reserva.

The nose is refined and layered: rich red and dark fruit, dried herbs, subtle balsamic, earthy spice, and a whisper of nutty oak. On the palate, the wine is medium- to full-bodied, compact and firm yet round and polished — the freshness of the cool 2018 vintage giving it linear acidity and real tension. Soft, finely grained tannins frame flavors of ripe red fruit, light baking spice, and a textural, earthy depth that builds toward a long, elegant finish. Aged 24 months in French oak, then a minimum of 12 months in bottle. Drink now or cellar with confidence.

Wine Advocate 94 — "Very classical... serious and austere, with the freshness of a cool year... harmonious blend with good ripeness and the freshness from the year. It should improve with time in bottle."

Jeb Dunnuck 92 — "Finessed, long, and supple... linear acidity and soft texture. Classically flavored in rich red fruit and light baking spice."

James Suckling 92 — "Spiced and earthy, showing rich dark fruit, dried herbs and subtle nutty and balsamic undertones... round and polished mouthfeel."

• Producer: Gomez Cruzado, Haro, Rioja, Spain
• Vineyard: Viña Dorana — Alto Najerilla, 600–710m elevation, old bush vines
• Vintage: 2018
• Appellation: Rioja DOCa
• Blend: 60% Tempranillo, 40% Garnacha
• Vinification: 4-day cold pre-fermentation maceration; 24 months in French oak (2nd & 3rd fill); 12+ months in bottle
• Production: 29,482 bottles + 710 magnums
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red fruit, dark fruit, dried herbs, balsamic, baking spice, earthy, finely grained tannins
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 10+ years
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, braised short ribs, Iberian charcuterie, aged Manchego, wild mushroom dishes

A 94-point Rioja Reserva from one of Haro's most principled producers — Viña Dorana is the benchmark for what old-vine Alto Najerilla can achieve.

Winemaker Description

Purple with ruby highlights, this wine shows up-front aromas of raspberries and black cherries with undertones of leather and spice. On the palate, it is expansive and rich.

Pair with lamb and apricot tajines, prime rib, tomato stews, or green lentil-based dishes.

Expert Ratings

Wine Enthusiast 93 Points  | This deep-hued wine has a bouquet of brambly fruits of the wood, coffee bean and dried sage. It opens with notes of mint and clove accompanied by sturdy tannins and ripe summer cherry, Mission fig, cocoa powder and dried thyme flavors. The lengthy finish is marked with menthol and pomegranate. (2015). 

Robert Parker 92 Points |  There is some more development in the 2015 Finca Valpiedra Reserva, which also feels a little riper, showing the dry, warm and ripe character of the year but keeping a low pH of 3.47 and 6.2 grams of acidity. This is medium-bodied, although some will call them thin—and certainly, they are not full-bodied and round wines, they are sharper. This is a blend of 92% Tempranillo and 4% each Graciano and Maturana Tinta that matured in French oak barrels for 22 months. These wines are feeling a little more traditional than in the past.

James Suckling 92 Points | This shows notes of incense and smoke on the nose, together with spiced plums, blackberries, dark chocolate, licorice and a hint of tar. Medium-to full-bodied with firm tannins and bright acidity. Ripe, yet juicy and succulent, with a rich finish. Drink or hold.

Descendientes de José Palacios | Pétalos | Bierzo DO | Castilla y León, Spain | 2021

Before Mencía became the darling of Northwestern Spain, Pétalos was already making waves. Descendientes de José Palacios — the project of Álvaro Palacios and his nephew Ricardo Pérez Palacios — has been the defining force in Bierzo’s modern renaissance, farming old-vine Mencía on ancient slate soils with biodynamic and organic principles. Pétalos is their entry wine, but it carries the full weight of the estate’s philosophy: precision, transparency, and a deep sense of place.

The 2021 is widely regarded as the finest vintage of the 2020–2022 trio. Lower alcohol than ever (13.5%), it shows a lighter, more delineated profile with the juicy, aromatic Mencía character that defines the appellation. The nose is enticing: red berries, violets, wild herbs, white pepper, and a whisper of agave. On the palate, a velvety mouthfeel and very fine, chalky tannins frame nimble red fruit with elegant structure and a long, gourmand finish. Approachable now and drinking beautifully through 2029. 320,000 bottles and 2,567 magnums produced.

Before the Mencia grape became the darling of Northwestern Spain, Petalos was already making waves. A beautifully tailored wine. Enticing aromas of red berries with underlying whiffs of violets. Poised and well integrated flavors.
Oscar Garcia, 67Wine

• Producer: Descendientes de José Palacios
• Appellation: Bierzo DO, Castilla y León, Spain
• Grape: 100% Mencía (Biodynamic, Organic)
• Vintage: 2021
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Drink: Now through 2029
• Production: 320,000 bottles + 2,567 magnums
• Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2021

• Luis Gutiérrez, Robert Parker — 93+ pts: Juicy, expressive, and showy. Aromatic herbs, velvety mouthfeel, very fine tannins. Very hedonistic. Drink 2023–2029.
• Zekun Shuai, James Suckling — 93 pts: Tangy white pepper, wild herbs, and red berries. Elegant and delineated with chalky tannins and nimble red fruit. Drink now.

Winemaker Description 

An organic xarel·lo wine with minimum intervention.
 
From the flagship variety of the Penedès, the xarel-lo, comes this organic single-varietal wine. Calcari brings together the purest and most sincere expression of this ancestral variety, native to our territory and strongly rooted in our winemaking tradition.

Its characteristics give it great versatility, making it a variety suitable for the production of long-aged sparkling wines or wines with minimal intervention such as Calcari, a wine that allows us to see its great expressive capacity and its mineral characte. 

Winemaker Description 

The treasures of El Maestro Sierra are many. From the back of their building they have a clear view of the Atlantic Ocean.

In 1832 the master carpenter José Antonio Sierra founded El Maestro Sierra. As one of the top coopers in the area, José Antonio was the person who made the barrels for all of the big Sherry houses. After years of making barrels for everyone else, he came to the conclusion that he could produce Sherries that were better than what the big Sherry houses were cranking out, so he went about opening up his own little winery.

This little up-start Sherry producer was not welcomed in the world of nobility-owned Sherry houses and so the local gentry did everything they could to stop him. Fortunately the quality of his sherry prevailed over their efforts and José Antonio Sierra became one of the top Almacenistas (stockholders) of high-quality Sherries. Poking fun at his struggle, the label depicts an allegorical fox hunt with the nobles hunting El Maestro Sierra’s fox.

This Amontillado is aged for a total of 12 years under flor and oxidatively in American oak casks. Very explosive aromas of salts and almonds. The palate offers similar flavors in a very elegant framework.