For lovers of big, smooth reds, El Bombero is a top choice. It comes from Cariñena, a hot, arid region of Spain where sun-loving grapes like Garnacha (same as Châteauneuf’s Grenache) achieve amazing ripeness. Ancient vines, hot summers and a lack of rain mean fewer grapes, which in turn means superb flavour intensity. Hence mouthfilling El Bombero. There are no fancy châteaux around Cariñena, but, as Decanter magazine notes, that doesn’t stop it from being home to some of the best-value reds in the world.
From award-winning winemaker Javier Domeque, El Bombero is packed with spicy black fruit power and a warm glow. Great on its own and a tasty choice for casseroles, full-flavoured pasta dishes, herby roast sausages and mash, and barbecues.
The Manzanos brothers make a range of customer favourite Riojas at their family estate. Then just over the border, into Navarra, they also own vineyards and there make this bright fruit red. All Tempranillo, it is silky with deep berry flavour.
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For five generations, the Castro family have been making exceptional red wines in the heart of Valdepeñas, central Spain. Their extensive vineyards lie at altitudes in excess of 700 metres, planted on poor, infertile soils and blessed with plenty of sunshine (2,500 hours a year). All ideal conditions for the production of great wine, with good colour and intensity. They pride themselves on their traditional methods, using here all Tempranillo, hand-harvested, fermented slowly, then aged at least 18 months in French and American oak barrels. The former lends subtle spice notes, while the latter offers more obvious coconut flavours. With 7 years age, it shows mellow red fruits, spice and oaky complexity. Great with tapas or grilled meats.
