Worldly Wine: Spanish Flare

Welcome to the world of wine! As I traversed through various landscapes of the world I felt it my duty, as a self-proclaimed wine enthusiast, to indulge in the many taste bud tantalizing wines of the world.  Each country I visited had their own unique blend of goodness for me to wet my palate with.  The wine tour begins in Spain, the country which I spent the most time in, and enjoyed the most servings of wine.  Spain is famous for its perfectly aged and classic wines.

The first lesson of Spanish wine is the various age grades; Joven, which is made with no oak, Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva, which is aged a minimum of sixty months and boasts a smooth oak finish. Among Spain's famous reds are my two favorites, Rioja and Ribera del Duero.  Rioja is a favorite to many Spaniards because it comes from the classic Rioja region, and boasts an aged taste, while remaining fresh and light. Some popular Rioja brands include Cune and Marques de Caceres.  Ribera del Duero comes from a Tempranillo wine variety, which is an early-ripening grape variety.  Ribera del Duero possesses a powerful, strong taste, yet maintains elegance; emitting aromas of black plums and cherries.  This wine pairs well with a hearty steak or beef. Popular labels of Ribera include 5 Jotas and Fiel. Although famous for its red wine, I discovered some delectable white wines as well.  One of my fanorites was Albarino, which is like an ocean breeze in your mouth, and pairs well with seafood and pasta dishes.  Also, you may be in the mood for adding  kick to your cooking with wine. Spain has some wonderful selections of Sherry fortified wine. Sherry can also be used as a great dessert wine.  There are two main types, fino- a lighter dry taste, and oloroso- a very rich and full taste. Either will add bursts full of flavor to any meal! Finally, if you are not in the mood to cook or drink wine, put yourself in a more festive mood with Spain's excellent version of champagne, Cava sparkling wine.  It is cheaper than french Champagne, but has more bang and bubbles!

If you happen to be visiting Spain, a couple famous regions for wineries are Rioja and Navarra, where you can visit old wineries, experience tastings, and smash your own grapes! Overseas travel may not be high on your list of priorities in today's backwards economy, so you can always make your way to the nearest spirits vendor and just ask to be directed to the Spanish wine aisle!  If ever presented with the opportunity to go to Spain, GO! It is a beautiful country and culture, and boasts some of the world's best wines.