Tapena Spanish Wines

[dbierman]

If you like Spanish wines, you've got to check out Tapena. All sub $10 wines that are simply amazing: Garnacha, Tempranillo and Verdejo. Found the Garnacha and Tempranillo at BevMo for $8.

Tapena is owned by the Freixenet family who has a long history of producing solid Spanish wines. Great value for money.

Garnacha: 95% Garnacha, 5% Tempranillo
A full bodied wine with round tannins that marry well with the dark fruit and spice such as rosemary and thyme. Nice, smooth finish. I popped the bottle open for a summer BBQ - grilled hamburgers with the works - and held its own.

Tempranillo: 100% Tempranillo
An earthy wine but lush with red cherry fruit and a long finish. Got a sense of coffee and mocha. The finish held a little spice that helped draw out the experience. I drank this one on its own but feel it would go well with anything involving red meat or BBQ.

Verdejo: 100% Verdejo
This was my first time with this varietal and I was very happy with the results. The nose offered tropical fruits and peaches that was carried to the palate that had a hint of minerality that created a very balanced and crisp white. Enjoyed it with a simple summer salad.

I'd highly recommend these wines for both Spanish wine lovers and newbies alike. A nice way to break into some new varietals without robbing the penn bank.

[wondersofwine]

Spain does have some bargains in wine.