Exciting Spain!

Published on May 24, 2011

I have just completed teaching Spain for the Alberta Liquor Store Association and the International Sommelier Guild. I am very enthused by the wines coming out of Spain. It is a large diverse country with many different climates. There is the hot Mediterranean coastal climate and a cooler Atlantic coastal climate. The inland areas are drought ridden and parched. The wines vary from crisp white, to deep structured reds.

Here is a peek at what to look for in your wine store.


• Cava is the sparkling wine of Spain. It is made exactly like Champagne, but with their own indigenous grapes. It is a wonderful sparkler for any occasion.


• Verdelho is a crisp white wine with a tiny amount of spritz on the tongue. It is a tart, citrusy wine.


• A particular wine to look for in the white category would be a modern wine called Torres, Vinas Esmerelda. It is made with Gewurztraminer and Muscat. It is a grapey, juicy wine that would pair with spicy foods. Surprise your guests with this one!


• Rioja is a region where the wines have had a lot of aging before release. You can get an aged Rioja for around twenty dollars. Look for the words, “Crianza” or “Reserva” on the front label. These are great value wines.
  One of my favourites is the Pagos de Araiz, 2004.
Priorat is a famous region for wines that should be aged. We had a 1998 and a 2004 where we found the later to be very young.

Lay these wines down for a few years.

I encourage everyone to explore their Spanish wine section in their local store. You will find some gems.


Find the wines. Go to Alberta Liquor Guide and follow the directions. You can find the wine close to your postal code. Call the store first to make sure it is in stock!