Sierra Cantabria Tinto 2010

Tempranillo is such a haunting grape, capable of a range of emotions from a Pinot Noir like delicacy to a Syrah like power punch. But really fine Tempranillo straddles the balance between detail and power, and often it's the source of the grapes (along with the aging regiment) that makes all the difference. This one is a Joven, a young Rioja, made mostly from Tempranillo and showing the sassy spice and bright raspberry typical of a fine example. This is bright in the mouth, with jammy essences and a solid medium body. Maybe its because it's Rioja but I'm now thinking about cured meats, olives dusted with thyme, and sauteed mushrooms would all be at home with this wine. Yum. The Eguren family owns some of the prime property in Rioja, and the quality of their vineyards (along with their environmental stance -- these vineyards never see herbicides or pesticides) shows through even in this affordably priced wine.
Wine review by Jason Kallsen, February 2013

Food Pairings

Grilled meats are the entree of choice for this great value Spanish gem.