Sensible Pricing for Cencibel, A.K.A.Tempranillo
We have just returned from Spain’s capitol of Madrid and Castilla La Mancha winegrowing region south of the city. The concentration of aristocratic buildings is most impressive. One of the world’s top museums, El Prado, is to Madrid what the Louvre is to Paris. It’s a must visit with its unparalleled collection of Spanish, as well as international, masterpieces. After a concentrated day of tourist activities, it’s time to enjoy local wines and nibble tapas into the night. Dare not miss seafood or meat paellas. Then there’s Jamon Iberico - ham Spanish style made from acorn-fed hogs. It’s a Madrid staple. And cheese? It’s Manchego, go, go, going, gone. It’s a firm, semi-hard cheese from La Mancha made exclusively from the milk of Manchega sheep.
But what wine to enjoy with these Spanish specialties? The most celebrated local grape is Cencibel, internationally known and sold as Tempranillo. The vast region of Castilla La Mancha is home to huge tracts of old vine plantings. These mature vines yield fruit of intensity and depth. Deep ruby in colour, the aromas of black cherries, hints of mocha and dark chocolate segue into velvety tannins that provide the base for flavours of berries and dark cherry, topped with hints of vanilla and clove. Medium to full bodied, the above-mentioned specialties would pair beautifully. The wine is El Tocador Old Vines Tempranillo widely available as a new continuous listing at the LCBO. At a retail of $11.95, it’s a super value. James Suckling gave it 91 points.