By Jose Valverde, Wine Steward, Stamford
At Barcelona, we know that many of our guests are seeking an exciting dining experience buy may not know much about the food or wines of Spain. While it’s relatively simple for them to decide what they might like from our tapas menu, the wine list often confuses the average wine drinker. That’s where I come in.
There are two bottles of wine I’m excited about and wanted to share with you:
First, is the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Echeverria, Limited Edition. It’s a phenomenal Chilean Cabernet for the price. If you like a full-bodied wine of great quality, this one is for you. Roberto Echeverria is an amazing producer and the wine is of superb quality. I describe it as a New World Cabernet made in a French style. It is very well balanced with all the beautiful notes of a great Cabernet Sauvignon but just a little more subtle than the typical New World Cab. Their use of French oak to age the wine adds to the subtlety and beauty of it. I have always loved this wine from the first time I tasted it about 5 years ago, and believe it is still one of the best on our list. It pairs well with charcuterie, beef, game and mixed grills. A must have for Cabernet Sauvignon Lovers.
Second is a new addition to our wine list: the 2006 Finca de la Maria, Vendimia Seleccionada. It’s 100% Tempranillo from the Spanish wine region called Ribera del Duero. These wines are very well known among the Spanish wine consumers, and Finca la Maria is a great example of what winemakers can deliver here. Tempranillos from this region are usually pretty full-bodied wines, with lots of dark fruit, spice and cedar notes balanced by great acidity and chewy tannins. This wine has all of the great qualities of one from this region but it’s a bit more subtle. The fruit notes are juicier and the tannins a bit less gripping, making it easier to drink. Whenever I want to introduce people to the wines from Ribera del Duero, this is my go-to choice. It pairs well with charcuterie, roasted meats, mushrooms, grilled lamb, and suckling pig. A great choice for those who love Tempranillos and want to try something exciting!
