More than 12 million cases of Spanish wine were sold in the UK in 2005, much of it (we’re sorry to say) was not great. Why? Although Spain is one of the world’s oldest and most developed wine producing countries, the average quality of the bulk of their wine is decidedly average, mass-produced and often not worth drinking.
This is not an assault on Spanish wine but when the overall quality of Spanish wine is compared to the likes of France and Italy, its pales in comparison at mst levels.
That said, there has been a marked improvement in the last decade or so and things are changing. Thanks largely to new-style producers who have rocked the boat and are now producing interesting and in some cases world beating wines. Hopefully this indicates a continuing trend that will put Spain well and truly on the quality wine map, where it should be. Though some of the names may be strange, take a gamble on some of our Spanish gems - you won't be disappointed.
Some great whites and reds can be found in Spain. Whites like Albarino, Verdejo and Godello are showing great promise and can produce wines of great aromatic quality with real substance on the palate. Reds can be on the expensive side, especially for quality wines. However, areas such as Terra Alta and Calatayud show real class at a lower price. The best reds are the top Tempranillo’s from Rioja and Ribera Del Duero and Grenache from Priorat, but be wary of the second and third tier wines from these regions which can be mediocre with a premium price tag.
Finally, there is the wonder of Cava - many of the quality estates are producing truly gorgeous wines, with loads of crisp acidity and complex fruit. We have an absolute superstar in Torello (our house Cava and a Wineaux UK exclusive) and though its not cheap, every pound can be tasted.
Spanish wines are often graded as follows (oldest first): Gran Reserva, Reserva, Crianza. (Remember this is never a definitive sign of quality - as always the producer is all important)
Key grape varieties:
R Tempranillo, Grenache, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet, Pinot Noir
W Viura, Garnacha Blanco, Malvasia, Macabeo, Parellada, Xarello
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