Campo Viejo 2008 Crianza, Rioja (Spain)

When you ask most red wine lovers to name their favorite varietals, most would respond with Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah/Shiraz, or maybe Merlot. When I am asked this question, I respond "Tempranillo" I simply love a great red from Spain and as most of us wine lovers know Tempranillo is the most important grape grown in Spain.

Tempranillo comes from the Spanish word Temprana which means (early).  Tempranillo grapes ripen almost three weeks earlier than other grapes grown in Spain. It is a black grape, native to Spain and often blended with Grenache.

This wine hales from the Rioja region of Spain. This wine pours regal rust color, the aromas are plum, raisins, earth and black cherry. On the palate, more plum, leather, warm spices and the slightest hint of red pepper, again a bit of earth with a touch of maple wood. Good balance, not over tannic with a velvety smooth vanilla finish.

This wine would pair well with pork tenderloin, grilled tuna steaks and even a nice vanilla cigar, after dinner of course.

Located south of the Cantabrian Mountains along the Ebro river, La Rioja benefits from a Continental Climate. The mountains help to isolate the region which has a moderating effect on the climate. They also protect the vineyards from the fierce winds that are typical of northern Spain. Grapes grown in this region are Tempranillo, Garnacha, Viura, Graciano and Mazuelo.