With the most diverse wine growing regions to be found within any one country, it’s no surprise Spain’s red varietals offer such a broad range of experiences for wine enthusiasts. These are some of the most popular varietals with food pairing suggestions to help make a meal out of your exploration.
TEMPRANILLO
Tempranillo, Spain’s most talked about red grape, is responsible for the wines of Rioja and Ribera del Duero. In Rioja, where it is often blended with other local grapes, it makes wines that are Smooth & Medium, with flavours ranging from red fruit to leather. Vanilla and herb notes appear in more complex, aged versions (Reserva & Gran Reserva). Areas such as Ribera and Toro use it to produce more powerful wines, with darker fruit flavours. Tempranillo is a must pairing with local lamb.
FOOD PAIRINGS:
Grilled Lamb | Roast Pork | Sausages
GARNACHA
Garnacha is Spain’s workhorse grape variety. It’s often used for blending but it can also make powerful old-vine versions. Garnacha based wines range in style from Light & Fruity to quite-full-bodied. Regardless of their weight, they most often offer abundant berry fruit flavours. Try lighter versions with tapas, meat-based paella and lighter red meats. Richer versions work well with grilled fare.
FOOD PAIRINGS:
Cured Meats | Hamburgers | Pork
BOBAL
If you’re not familiar with Bobal, you’re not alone. The grape is primarily grown in southern Spain’s Valencia. Historically it was grown for high yields resulting in light wines. Lately, it’s been gaining increased respect and returning wines that range from Medium & Smooth to Bold & Full with an exciting combination of rich fruitiness, lively acidity and attractive spicy notes. The best Bobals, with their chewy tannins, pair nicely with carne asada (grilled meat).
FOOD PAIRINGS:
Lamb | Mushrooms | Vegetarian Fare
MONASTRELL
On the other side of the Pyrenees, Monastrell is known as Mourvedre. Regardless of the name, these grapes are rich in sugar content which translates to enormously full-bodied wines, rich in plum, blackberry and meaty notes. It loves basking in the sun, so it does well in Jumilla and Yecla, two warm climate regions found near the Mediterranean coast. Monastrell wines will happily accompany a thick piece of grilled steak.
FOOD PAIRINGS:
Roast Beef | Stews | Game