Spanish Wine

Expert Review - Vintage 2020 

93 Points Robert Parker | The 2020 Angelita del Challao comes from a blend of different vineyards in the three valleys from Labastida, looking for a village wine; it was produced with 85% Tempranillo and the rest Garnacha, Mazuelo, Viura, Garnacha Blanca and other rare varieties from their own vineyards and purchased grapes. It fermented in concrete with indigenous yeasts, 40% full clusters that are foot trodden and the rest uncrushed grapes and matured in 225- and 500-liter barrels and 2,000-liter foudres—10 months with each plot separate—and then it was blended and let to settle in concrete for another 10 months. They look for a more approachable wine than Challao, with more floral aromas in a very elegant and harmonious way. The palate is medium-bodied with medium ripeness, 13.5% alcohol and very good freshness and acidity, balanced and harmonious, very tasty and with elegant, refined tannins. Really very good. 17,282 bottles and some larger magnums were filled in May 2022. (2020). 

Winemaker Description

Rioja is without question the most famous wine region in Spain, but the region is anything but homogeneous. The three sub-regions – Rioja Alavesa, Rioja Oriental and Rioja Alta – differ enormously. This wine comes from the small hamlet of Labastida in the northwest of Rioja Alavesa, the smallest and northernmost sub-region located in the Spanish Basque Country and characterized by calcareous clay and sandy soils. 

The mastermind behind the Dominio del Challao winery is Manu Michelini, whose family makes incredibly fine, terroir-driven wines under the name Michelini i Mufatto at both their winery in Bierzo, in northeastern Spain, and the Argentine winery in Mendoza. The Challao is the winery's top wine. Medium ruby ​​red with violet. There is significantly more intensity in the glass than with the Garnacha, but this wine still reminds me more of Burgundy than Bordeaux on the nose. The winery is clearly on the trail of elegance. Juicy, fresh wild berries, black cherries, rose petals and black Assam tea, that's delicately smoky. 

Then come violets and freshly fired clay. In the mouth, cassis, fresh blackberries and lots of black cherry again. The intense, chalky minerality is phenomenal, building up gradually on the tongue. Delicately bitter, fresh herbs and a touch of After Eight. The tannins are fine and chalky, and as soon as you feel the structure, the next wave of black cherry washes over your tongue. 

This is not at all what you imagine Rioja to be in the classic sense. But this wine is a lot of fun because of its freshness and mineral intensity without being boring. On the contrary, I am convinced that it will develop gracefully in the cellar for years because it is made for a long life. Super chic fabric and without question a Rioja in a class of its own! 

Winemaker Description

Slightly acid on the palate, giving it a young character. Pleasant and light.

Fresh and fruity, reminiscent of the varieties from which it is made, along with citric aromas.

Serving with Rice fish, Mixed rice, Crustaceans, Molluscan shell, Pasta with pesto sauce, Pasta with tomato sauce, Pasta with creamy sauces, Pasta with marinara sauce, Whitefish, Fish with sauce, Pizza.

Spicy nose with hints of black pepper and scrubland. Licorice, plum, tobacco. On the palate, red plum, cherry, friendly, fresh, very long.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Syrah and Petit Verdot

The province of Malaga in Andalusia, known mainly for its sweet wines such as Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel, also grows red varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, although to a lesser extent compared to other wine regions. Winemaker Description.

Parés Baltà Cosmic Blanc · Penedès · 2025

Cosmic brings together native Xarel·lo and Sauvignon Blanc in an organic white from Parés Baltà’s Les Valls-Les Torres estate. The producer describes vineyards at 600 meters above sea level within a Natural Park, with Sauvignon Blanc lending freshness to the blend. Its name pays tribute to the biodynamic viticulture practiced in the vineyards since 2012.

Flowers, white fruit and green apple lead the aromatic profile, with citrus and mineral accents. The palate combines green apple and white flowers with a dry, crisp texture, finishing with grapefruit and chamomile. Serve it with fresh salads, rice dishes, white fish, sushi or soft cheeses.

Producer Description

Within the vineyards located on our Les Valls-Les Torres estate, at an altitude of 600m above sea level and within a Natural Park, grow grapes of the native xarel-lo variety, the flagship variety of the Penedès. With these grapes we make the organic white wine Cosmic. Our freshest and most perfumed xarel-lo thanks to its coupage of the Sauvignon blanc variety, which gives it freshness, creating a perfect balance between the two varieties.

The name of this wine, Cosmic, is a tribute to the biodynamic viticulture that we have been practising in our vineyards since 2012, an agriculture based on a holistic, systemic and pure vision of agriculture in which, among other influences, the moon, stars and planets are taken into account.

Parés Baltà · Producer Description

Winemaker Description

Very intense aroma, flowers, white fruits and green apple with a citric and mineral touch. The palate is full of nuances - green apple and white flower flavours merge with a deeply mineral quality that extends into a dry, crisp texture. The wine finishes with hints of grapefruit and chamomile. Wonderful.

Pair with fresh salads, rice dishes, white fish, sushi and soft cheeses.

Parés Baltà · Winemaker Description

At a glance

• Producer: Parés Baltà
• Wine: Cosmic Blanc
• Vintage: 2025
• Origin: Penedès, Catalonia, Spain
• Grapes: Xarel·lo and Sauvignon Blanc
• Style: Dry, crisp white wine
• Viticulture: Organic; producer describes biodynamic practices since 2012
• Size: 750ml
• Pairings: Fresh salads, rice dishes, white fish, sushi and soft cheeses

A floral, citrus-bright Penedès white with a crisp mineral edge.

Winemaker Description 

This new vintage from Camino Romano, is a vintage that has been classified as 'very good' in D.O. Ribera del Duero. Camino Romano has been produced in D.O. Ribera del Duero by Bodegas Dominio Romano.

This wine is a single variety Tinto Fino (100%) grown from a rigorous selection of vines which are between 15 to 30 years old.

As for the production, in order to extract the maximum aromatic potential of the grape, they use "cold soaking", a modern technique that extracts aromas and colour of the wine with little input from the tannins.

Finally, Camino Romano undergoes an aging of 12 months in French and Hungarian oak barrels of 2 and 3 years old.

Winemaker Description

An intense red-purple colour. Potent and elegant on the nose with a great complexity of aromas (jams, minerals, menthol, spices, wild herbs, toffee and cacao).

Great harmony in the mouth with very marked sweet tannins, very complex and full of flavours of black fruits, raisins, liquorice, coffee, ink and aromatic herbs. Persistent lingering finish. Excellent wine for aging.

Winemaker Description 

Has a peachy nose and a mellow palate, round and gentle with hints of orange peel, nuts and varnish. It could be around 20 years of age, so it's not a super old wine. It's approachable, super clean and defined and a textbook example of the category. This has 19% alcohol.

Winemaker Description

This wine comes from plots of bush-trained vines on poor, sandytextured soils in the Rioja Alta area. The vines are an average of morethan 35 years old and smaller yields. They are harvested with great care and transported to the winery in small containers. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainlesssteel tanks at a controlled temperature of 28ºC, with prior bleeding-off and a long maceration of three weeks in contact with theskins. Ageing in French and American oak barrels (90%-10%) over 28 months, followed by subsequent bottle conditioning for at least 4 years until it is leaves the winery.

AWARDS
93 Silver Medal · International Wine Challenge (v. 2011).

90 Puntos · James Suckling (a. 2010).

90 puntos · Guía Repsol (a. 2010).

90 puntos · Wine Spectator (a. 2009).

91 puntos · Wine Enthusiast (a. 2009).

91 puntos · Wine Wine Advocate (a. 2008).

SENSORY EVALUATION

Look: Ruby red with a noticeable rim. Excellent brightness and clarity.

Aroma & palate: On its first contact with oxygen, it appears clean but reticent. Then, sweet notes of oak appear, cinnamon, clove and candied fruits. Infinite nuances that change with the passage of time.

On the palate, it is subtle and pleasant, with great finesse uponentry and through the mid-palate.

The tannins are extremely well polished and it has a serene acidity that maintains a long finish.

SERVING & FOOD PAIRING

White meat, oven-baked fish. Cured meat and dark chocolate desserts. 

93 Silver Medal · International Wine Challenge (v. 2011).

Authentic Ribera del Duero Tempranillo

Quinta Milu Ribera del Duero Tempranillo 2024 showcases the pure expression of Spain's celebrated wine region. Crafted from 100% Tempranillo grapes harvested from fifty-year-old vines, this wine captures the essence of traditional Spanish winemaking. Winemaker Germán R. Blanco describes it as "vino de pueblo"—a wine for everyday enjoyment and for everyone—reflecting his commitment to creating approachable yet authentic wines that honor the terroir of Ribera del Duero.

Artisanal Winemaking Process

Every step in creating Quinta Milu reflects dedication to quality and tradition. The grapes are carefully destemmed before aging for a minimum of six months in seasoned French or American oak casks. Staying true to natural winemaking principles, this wine is bottled unfined, unfiltered, and without cold stabilization, preserving its authentic character and allowing the terroir to shine through in every glass.

Germán R. Blanco's operation in the small town of La Aguilera is a "micro winery". He eschews modern winemaking techniques and international varieties working with old Tempranillo vines. He makes "vinos de pueblo", blended wines from different vineyards from villages in the area, as well as vinos de parcela, sourced from single-vineyards, and parcel-specific.

There is no new oak in the winery, Germán uses concrete, amphorae, and old barrels. Quinta Milú is named for Germán's son Lucas whom they lovingly refer to as "Mi Lu" or Milú.

Rich Flavor & Aroma Profile

Experience a wine that delights all the senses. The deep ruby color hints at the complexity within, while the nose reveals an inviting bouquet of dark berries, ripe cherries, and subtle vanilla undertones from oak aging. On the palate, you'll discover layers of dark fruit flavors balanced by smooth tannins and a velvety finish. The interplay of fruit-forward sweetness and gentle spice creates a harmonious drinking experience that lingers pleasantly.

Versatile Wine & Food Pairings

Quinta Milu's balanced profile makes it an exceptional companion to a wide range of dishes. Enjoy it with classic Spanish tapas, grilled chorizo, or paella for an authentic experience. It also pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, aged Manchego cheese, or hearty mushroom risotto. Whether you're planning a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant celebration, this versatile wine enhances any meal.

A Wine for Every Occasion

More than just a bottle of wine, Quinta Milu represents the soul of Ribera del Duero and the Fifth Mile philosophy of making exceptional wine accessible. Its approachable nature welcomes newcomers to Spanish wine while offering the depth and complexity that seasoned enthusiasts appreciate. Share it with friends, pair it with your favorite meal, or simply enjoy a glass as you unwind—Quinta Milu is designed for life's everyday moments and special celebrations alike.

Winemaker Description 

González Byass Solera 1847 is a sweet Cream with aromas of figs and raisins and touches of wood and vanilla. The palate is velvety, with notes of caramel and well-integrated wood. 

Hidalgo La Gitana · Manzanilla En Rama · 750ml

Hidalgo La Gitana Manzanilla En Rama offers a concentrated, complex expression of Manzanilla from Sanlúcar de Barrameda in Andalucía, Spain. Drawn straight from the solera and bottled with minimal treatment, it emphasizes depth, purity and the distinctive character of flor.

En Rama Bottling

Produced since 2011, this special bottling is released in small quantities twice a year, in spring and fall when the flor is at its thickest. Little to no fining, filtration or stabilization preserves a more intense expression of the wine.

Tasting Notes

Chamomile, dried herbs, sea spray and dried nuts lead into a soft, rounded palate of apple skin, dried pear, hazelnut and salt. Pronounced flor character, richness and a long finish give this Manzanilla its distinctive savory appeal.

Winemaker Description

The Hidalgo La Gitana Manzanilla En Rama — a style of Manzanilla or Fino that is drawn straight from the solera and bottled with little to no fining, filtration or stabilization — is a special bottling that has been produced only since 2011. Twice a year — once in the spring and once in the fall, when the flor is at its thickest — Hidalgo takes wine straight from the solera and bottles a small release with minimal treatments, resulting in a Manzanilla that is more concentrated, complex and intense.

Brilliant mid-lemon color with intoxicating aromas of chamomile, dried herbs, sea spray, flor and dried nuts. The palate shows a striking depth of flavor with remarkable length and purity; soft and round with flavors of apple skin, dried pear, hazelnut, salt and a healthy dose of flor. Stunning for its complexity, richness and depth.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Serve chilled with olives, salted almonds, anchovies, shellfish or fried fish. Its saline, nutty character makes it a compelling companion for a spread of savory tapas.

Details

• Producer: Bodegas Hidalgo La Gitana
• Wine: La Gitana Manzanilla En Rama
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Country: Spain
• Region: Andalucía
• Appellation: Manzanilla Sanlúcar de Barrameda
• Grape: Palomino
• Type: Manzanilla sherry
• Aging & Bottling: Drawn from the solera; bottled with minimal treatment
• Release Schedule: Spring and fall

Williams & Humbert · Dry Sack Medium Sherry · Jerez, Spain · 750ml

Williams & Humbert Dry Sack Medium is a rich, medium-bodied sherry with golden raisin, nutty aromas and flavors of apricot and brioche. Its medium style sits between dry and sweet, offering a rounded expression of sherry from Jerez, Spain.

Tasting Notes

Golden raisin leads the nose, accompanied by hints of almonds and walnuts. The palate is medium-bodied, flavorful and rich, with apricot, almonds, other nuts and brioche. As the original tasting note puts it, Dry Sack can be viewed as medium-dry or medium-sweet.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Try lightly chilled in a small wine glass alongside toasted almonds, aged cheese or savory tapas. Its nutty flavors also make it an inviting option for a small after-dinner pour.

Details

• Producer: Williams & Humbert
• Wine: Dry Sack Medium Sherry
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: Spain
• Region: Jerez
• Appellation: Jerez-Xeres-Sherry
• Grape listed: Palomino
• Type: Fortified wine, sherry
• Style: Medium
• Body: Medium-bodied