Spain Bodegas S - Z. By Derek Smedley MW. Last Updated 4/5/2017

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1 Spain Bodegas S - Z By Derek Smedley MW Last Updated 4/5/2017 Derek Smedley MW, Rectory Cottage, Lilley, Hertfordshire, LU2 8LU.

2 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Tasting notes from the following growers: Contents Bodegas Sáenz de Santa Maria... 6 Rioja... 6 Bodegas San Antolin... 6 Navarra... 6 Bodegas San Prudencio... 7 Rioja... 7 Bodegas Santalba... 7 Rioja... 7 Viña Sastre... 7 Ribera del Duero... 7 Savia... 8 Penedès... 8 Bodega Schatz... 8 Ronda... 8 Segura Viudas... 9 Penedés... 9 Sei Solo Ribera del Duero (Zavier Zaccagnini) Selenita Montsant Señorio de Uñuela Rioja El Sequé Alicante Carlos Serres Rioja Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 2

3 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Viñedos y Bodegas Sierra Cantabria San Vincente de la Sonsierra Rioja Bogagas la Solana La Mancha Solana de Ramirez Ruiz Rioja Bodegas Tabula Ribera del Duero Bodegas Tarón Rioja Compania de Vinos Telmo Rodrigues Rioja Teso la Monja Toro Tierra Hermosa Andalucia Bodegas Tobía Rioja Tomas Cusine Costers de Segre Castillo de Tomás Campo-Reales Finca Torremilanos Ribera del Duero Torres Penedès Compania De Vinhos Tricó Rias Baixas Bodegas Txomin Etxaniz Pais Vasco Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

4 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Bodegas Le Val Rais Baixas Bodegas Valdemar Rioja Bodegas Valdubón Ribera del Duero Valduero Ribera del Duero & Toro Finca Valero Cariñena Vall Llach Priorat Valquejigoso Madrid Rioja Vega Rioja Vega Del Rayo Rioja Bodegas y Viñedos Vega Real Ribera del Duero Bodegas Vega Sicilia Ribera del Duero Vega Tolosa Manchela Castilla y León Viñas del Vero Somontano Vetus Toro Finca Villacreces Ribera del Duero Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 4

5 SPAIN August 07, 2012 El Vinculo La Mancha Bodegas Virgen Del Aguila Cariñena Bodegas Vitulia Aranda de Duero El Zafiro Extremadura Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

6 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Spain Bodegas S - Z Date & place of tasting shown in italics Growers / Wineries are in alphabetical order with area underneath Bodegas Sáenz de Santa Maria Cenicero Rioja Rondan Crianza Tasted in London February 2005 The nose has very light mulberry fruit. The palate starts quite sweet but there is little weight and depth with not enough fruit showing on the finish. Rondan Crianza Tasted in London February 2005 The light fruit on the nose is overtaken by volatile acidity. There is not much weight of fruit on the palate and again at the back that hint of vinegar. Rondan Reserva Tasted in London February 2005 There is some quite rich fruit on the nose and a better weight of flavour, some sweetness on the palate. There is fruit showing on the back palate but it tends to fade leaving the finish short. Bodegas San Antolin Navarra Reserva Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Graciano Tasted in Shillington March 2016 The nose has depth of fruit the palate the richness of ripe cassis and black cherry the tannins are rounded integrated and the mid palate is quite fleshy. It feels lighter and firmer at the back and finishes with just a hint of maturity. Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 6

7 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Bodegas San Prudencio Araba Rioja Depadre Tempranillo 50% Garnacha 50% Tasted in Lilley September 2015 The nose has depth with a mix of black and red fruits the palate gamey sweet at the start but fresher in the middle. The tannins are well integrated firm but ripe the rich mix of fruits giving depth at the back. The finish has bramble and bilberry freshness with just a hint of spice. Depadre Tempranillo 50% Garnacha 50% Tasted in Lilley September 2015 The fruit is rich, concentrated flavours, depth of fruit on the nose a mix of black fruits. Fleshy and sweet on the palate the fruit supported by fine tannins with under the ripe fruit dark chocolate and liquorice all adding to the concentrated richness. Gamey and exciting at the back the finish is spicy with a mix of autumn hedgerow berries. Bodegas Santalba Rioja Ermita de San Felices Tempranillo 100% Tasted at Rioja 10 x 10 Banking Hall London October 2016 Brooding richness the nose has depth of fruit the palate is fleshy with ripe black fruits. The tannins are fine the mid palate velvet smooth and although fresher and firmer at the back the finish is rich and sweet. Viña Sastre Ribera del Duero Vina Sastre Tasted in Lilley June Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

8 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Redcurrants dominate the nose quite light and very fresh. There is slightly more depth and concentration on the palate more black and red cherry but towards the back the fresh fruit comes through with bitter red cherry and dry tannins on the finish. Crianza Tasted in Lilley June 2013 The nose is red cherry fresh and the palate has a mix of mainly red fruits. There is some sweetness at the start of the palate but the obvious tannins dry the mid palate and although slightly fuller towards the back the finish is dusty dry. Savia Penedès White Wines Savia Viva Classico Bianco Macabeo Xarel.lo Parellada Tasted at the Royal College of Physicians November 2014 The nose is light and fresh and although the palate has lime and grapefruit freshness there is more depth on the mid palate. Tropical fruits at the back enrich with lime and lemon lightening and refreshing the finish. Bodega Schatz Finca Sanguijuela Ronda Friedrich Schatz started his vineyard in Spain in Wine is in his blood as his family have been involved in wine production in Germany s Wuttemberg region for generations.. His estate Finca La Sanguijuela lies on the slopes of the Serrania de Ronda some 600 metres up. The south facing slopes are well protected but still get the right influences from the ocean. Many of his vines were little known in the region and this combined with his organic approach is making for lots of excitement. White Wines Chardonnay Tasted at the winery February 2010 The nose is lush a fruit salad of flavours. Ripe tropical fruits, pear and apricot are nicely balanced by fresher grapefruit that helps to lighten and lift the finish. Rosé Wines Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 8

9 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Rosado Muscat Trollinger Tasted at the winery February 2010 The colour is deep and although there is orange blossom on the nose the fruit is very rich lots of lush strawberry. Ripe, sweet fruit gives richness lushness in the middle. There are exciting fresh pepper spice flavours towards the back that balance the lushness. Finca Sanguijuela Conarte Tempranillo Syrah Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Tasted at the winery February 2010 The black cherry gives richness on the nose and the black plum fleshiness on the palate. The ripeness of the tannins enriches the middle, the lush fruit salad spiced up by hints of vanilla and balsamic vinegar. Pinot Noir Tasted at the winery February 2010 It feels very ripe with lots of sweet mulberry and strawberry on the nose. The lush palate is refreshed by red cherry but towards the back the chocolate richness wins through. Do not think Burgundy when drinking!! Petit Verdot Tasted at the winery February 2010 The mix of damson and black cherry gives power to the nose. The depth of fruit is enriched by liquorice and dark chocolate but towards the back some fresher bilberries and elderberries win through helping to balance the richness. Acinipo Lemberger (Blaufrankisch or Frankovica or Kekfrankos) Tasted at the winery February 2010 The nose has a mix of blackberry and raspberry spiced up by the underlying herbal character. Although rich in the middle there are fresher fruits towards the back that give a lighter feel on the finish and a stylish more elegant character. Segura Viudas Penedés Sparkling Wines Cava Segura Viudas Aria Brut Nature Cava 87 Tasted in Spain October Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

10 August 07, 2012 SPAIN It has the crispness of green limes on the nose quite light but fragrant. The palate lacks weight and depth of fruit and the finish is light and fresh. Torre del Gall Brut Reserva Tasted at Lincoln s Inn April 2015 The nose has a yeasty freshness a mix of lime and grapefruit and this citrus mix refreshes the start of the palate. The mid palate is sweeter peachy then citrus comes through at the back the finish steely and bright. An excellent appetiser but do try it with the seafood starters makes for a good marriage. Sei Solo Ribera del Duero (Zavier Zaccagnini) Preludio Tasted at the J B tasting Caledonian Club July 2016 Brooding richness the nose has depth of fruit the palate a rich mix of mainly black fruits. Supple velvet smooth in the middle sweet at the back but the tannins on the finish are still firm slightly holding back the fruit. Sei Solo Tasted at the J B tasting Caledonian Club July 2016 Depth of fruit rich fruit the nose has a powerful mix of flavours the start of the palate is fleshy and supple. There is mid structure but the tannins feel ripe depth of flavour with rich fruit at the back a mix of black fruits the finish though lighter with bramble freshness. Selenita Montsant Crianza Garnacha Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon Tasted in Madrid February 2011 Blackcurrant is very prominent on the nose all very rich and sweet fruited. The palate has the fleshiness of ripe fruit and rounded tannins but behind there is more structure quite firm tannins but as they are not aggressive or bitter they do not overpower the fruit. Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 10

11 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Señorio de Uñuela Rioja Rioja Reserva Tempranillo 100% Tasted in the Eco Lodges Clophill August 2016 The nose is firm black fruit in character the palate has a mix of flavours fresh red fruits under the black. Hints of oak add complexity slightly nutty the back palate has fresh fruit the finish sweeter quite full with depth of flavour. El Sequé Alicante El Sequé Monastrell 100% Tasted at the Wines from Spain tasting March 2012 Black fruits are very much in evidence on the nose backed by a herbal leafiness. The mid palate is rich but the fresher fruits towards the back give a lighter feel to the finish and bring out the fragrances. Carlos Serres Haro Rioja Vega del Rayo Seleccionada Tasted at the Stone House Hotel Wensleydale August 2010 A lovely example of modern Rioja, black fruited sweetness and richness, the important Tempranillo grape is blended with Mazuelo giving layers of complex flavour. Ripe tannins ensure that the palate is supple and fleshy; there are hints of red fruits adding some freshness and brightness. The depth of fruit would stand up to the beef dishes. 11 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

12 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Viñedos y Bodegas Sierra Cantabria San Vincente de la Sonsierra Rioja Rioja Selección Joven Tasted at the Royal College of Physicians March 2016 The nose is firm the palate very fresh with a mix of raspberry and bilberry. The mid palate lacks richness and depth and although sweeter at the back the finish is tight and firm. Rioja Crianza Tasted at the J B tasting Caledonian Club July 2016 The fruit on the nose is sweet but the start of the palate firm with red fruited freshness. Although there is a touch of sweetness the back palate lacks generosity and the finish is a bit tight. Unica Tasted at the J B tasting Caledonian Club July 2016 The nose is still closed the start of the palate quite tight a mix of fresh fruits. There is mid richness sweet black fruits the richness giving way to freshness at the back the finish still tight. Bogagas la Solana Arzuaga Navarro La Mancha Florentino Tempranillo 100% Tasted at the O W Loeb tasting London October 2011 There is a lot of fruit packing out the nose with black fruits tending to dominate the fresher red. The palate starts with richness but towards the back the red fruits come to the fore, lots of red cherry and this refreshes and gives the finish a slightly lighter feel. Solana de Ramirez Ruiz Abalos Rioja Valsarte Crianza Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 12

13 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Tasted in London February 2005 It is very light on the nose but quite fragrant. The palate lacks depth and feels a touch dilute with little concentration of flavour. The finish is short and light. Valsarte Tasted in London February 2005 The nose is fat and jammy and has a maceration carbonique character. It lacks depth and structure and the finish is both light and short. Bodegas Tabula Olivares de Duero Ribera del Duero Damana Tempranillo 92% Cabernet Sauvignon 8% Tasted at Lincoln s Inn November 2010 The nose has lots of red cherry backed by ripe bramble and some black cherry. The fleshiness of the black fruits enriches the mid palate black cherry and bramble dominating but behind is some fresher sloe. Ripe tannins help the fleshiness but the finish is still quite firm and slightly closed. Bodegas Tarón Tirgo Rioja Crianza Tempranillo 95% Mazuelo 5% Tasted at Rioja 10 x 10 Banking Hall London October 2016 The nose is closed the start of the palate firm and tight the mid palate light the fruit underpinned by tannins. Slightly sweeter at the back the mix of black and red fruits gives a richer feel to the finish. Compania de Vinos Telmo Rodrigues Lanciego 13 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

14 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Rioja White Wines Mountain Blanc Moscatel de Alejandria 100% Malage Sierras de Malaga Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 Wild fragrant spicy on the nose there is a lovely freshness on the palate. There is a greater depth in the middle some richer flavours with the freshness at the back bringing out an oriental spiciness on the finish. Gaba Do Xil Godello Valdeorras Tasted at Party Ingredients September 2016 Precise and mineral on the nose the palate has depth rich greengages and a hint of pineapple. Fresh fruit balances a hint of citrus flinty and mineral lighter towards the back yet the finish has the richness of ripe greengage. Almuvedre Monastrell 100% Alicante Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 Sweet fruited on the nose the start of the palate is fresher hedgerow berries more of a red fruit character. There is structure firm in the middle with sweeter fruit giving more depth and richness at the back. Pegaso Granito Garnacha Tinta 100% Castilla y León Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 Light floral and minty there is a lot happening on the nose. The fruit on the palate is sweet the mid palate rich with ripe flavours and although fresher and brambly at the back the finish has the richness of sweet fruit. Pegaso Pizarra Garnacha Tinta 100% Castilla y León Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 14

15 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Rich and ripe fruited the nose has depth and the palate fleshy suppleness. Bramble and mulberry give complexity with the ripeness sweetness of the fruit giving fleshy richness at the back. There are enough fresh fruits in evidence to balance. Teso la Monja Toro Almariz Tasted at the J & B tasting Vintners Hall September 2012 The nose is rich packed with black fruits and as they feel ripe the palate starts with a fleshy richness. Under the fruit the tannins are structured firm tending at this stage to overpower some of the fruit sweetness. Almirez Tasted at the J & B tasting Vintners Hall September 2012 The black fruited mix on the nose is sweet the fruit feeling ripe black cherry dominates. There is a mid freshness more of a red fruit character and this brings out the spice on the finish. Almirez Tasted at the Royal College of Physicians November 2015 Brooding depth the palate has a powerful mix of black fruits rich black cherry and cassis. The tannins feel ripe the mid palate sweet but it is firmer at the back with bitter chocolate and finishes with a powerful mix of black fruits. Victorino Tasted at the J & B tasting Vintners Hall September 2012 The nose has a ripe fruited fleshiness and power a lovely depth of flavour. Chunky plum and slightly firmer black cherry features on the palate the layers of fruit giving complexity. The richness is balanced by freshness with the fruit lingering on the finish. Victorino Tasted at the J & B tasting Vintners Hall September 2012 There is a lot of spicy oak showing on the nose backed by a mix of red and black berries. The mid palate is rich quite sweet fruited but towards the back it is fresher with the finish rather tight at the moment. Alabaster Tasted at the J & B tasting Vintners Hall September Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

16 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Black fruits dominate nose and palate rich powerful concentrated. The mid palate is fresher slightly more open the layers of fruit giving complexity and although the tannic structure is firm there is sweetness at the back. Tierra Hermosa Alhama de Granada Andalucia Veinte Grados Tempranillo 70% Syrah 20% Garnacha 10% Tasted at the Carlton Club March 2013 The nose has a lovely spiciness with lots of hedgerow fruits bramble and rosehips. The fruit is ripe the tannins rounded the mid palate supple and fleshy. Towards the back is feels firmer the richness balanced by freshness with on the finish a hint of vanilla adding to the complexity. Neblerio Tempranillo 100% Tasted at the Carlton Club March 2013 Behind the strawberry and red cherry there is the spice of new oak giving lots of interest. Red fruits seem to dominate the palate but underpinning are richer black fruits a touch of blackberry and black cherry. There is a lot happening on the finish juniper, some walnut and lots of black and red cherry. Bodegas Tobía Rioja Rosé Wines Alma de Tobía Rosado Tempranillo 55% Graciano 35% Merlot 10% Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 The colour is deep the nose has lots of firm red cherry. There is a fresher feel on the mid palate a mix of red fruits with the finish lighter fresh and fruity. Alma de Tobía Tinto Tempranillo 50% Graciano 35% Merlot 15% Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 The nose has lots of ripe fruit and the palate is fleshy rich quite supple. Towards the back black fruits seem to dominate but it finishes with fleshy strawberry. Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 16

17 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Viña Tobía Tinto Tempranillo 100% Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 Light on the nose the palate has red fruited freshness all quite fragrant. There is a richer feel to the mid palate sweet at the back but very fresh and light on the finish. Tobía Selección Crianza Tempranillo 80% Garnacha Tinta 10% Graciano 10% Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 Fresh red fruits give brightness on the nose and quite a light start to the palate. The mid palate is richer sweeter fruited more of a black fruit mix and there is depth of flavour on the finish. Oscar Tobía Reserva Tinto Tempranillo 95% Graciano 5% Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 The nose has minty freshness with a strong red fruit character. There is more depth in the middle a mix of flavours with sweet black fruits backed by red fruited freshness. Tobía Graciano Graciano 100% Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 Light and fresh on the nose the palate has a mix of bramble and wild strawberry. Mid sweetness gives a richer feel but it is lighter at the back with a mix of fragrances. Tobía Graciano Graciano 100% Tasted at Rioja 10 x 10 Banking Hall London October 2016 The nose is light fresh, fragrant with bramble and redcurrant the start of the palate is bright. There is some mid sweetness but fresh fruits show at the back the finish light with bramble freshness. Tomas Cusine Costers de Segre Catalunya White Wine Auzells Macabeu Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay Riesling Muscat Albãrino Tasted at the Royal College of Physicians September Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

18 August 07, 2012 SPAIN The fruit on the nose is rich quite spicy with some attractive fragrances. The mid palate has lots of grapefruit balancing the richness and giving an attractive freshness on the back palate and finish. Auzells Macabeu Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay Riesling Muscat Albãrino Tasted at Lincoln s Inn September 2012 The fruit feels ripe giving richness on the nose and a good depth of flavour on the palate. The citric mix of grapefruit and lemon refreshes the mid palates lifts the flavours and gives a crisper feel to the finish. Castillo de Tomás Campo-Reales White Wines Verdejo Tasted in Lincoln s Inn January 2014 The citrus mix gives freshness on the nose and a bright start to the palate. Under the lemon the grapefruit and white peach give some richness but towards the back there is a balancing freshness from the lime and lemon on the finish Tempranillo Tasted in Lincoln s Inn January 2014 Tempranillo one of Spain s most important red grapes has many faces and many names. Area soil and climate make big differences and here in Castilla-La Mancha Spain s arid centre, the land of Don Quixote and windmills the grape has more of a black fruited bramble character. The palate starts sweet the fruit feels ripe yet under the richer flavours red fruits some cherry some cranberry give a lighter fresher feel. It fills out at the back with a mix of flavours. The sweetness the freshness make it a Jack of all Trades great with richer dishes like pork, suits lamb and does not overpower poultry. Finca Torremilanos Aranda de Duero Ribera del Duero White Wines Penalba Lopez Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 18

19 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Tempranillo Blanca (Blanca del Pais) 40% Sauvignon Blanc 40% Viura & Chardonnay 20% Tasted in Spain October 2011 The richness of peaches and apricots fills out the nose and gives a fleshy start to the palate. There is an attractive weight of fruit the ripeness nicely balanced by some citric freshness and minerals with right at the back a hint of oak spice. Peñalba López Albillo 50% Sauvignon Blanc 50% Vino Blanco de la Tierra de Castilla y León Tasted at the winery October 2012 There are lots of rich flavours on the nose apricots and yellow peaches backed by a hint of almonds. The honeyed richness gives way to freshness that brings out the fragrances on the finish. Garnacha Vinos de la Tierra de Castilla y León Tasted at the winery October 2012 The red fruited mix on the nose is herbal leafy quite fresh and the mid palate is spicy and leafy. Towards the back there are some black fruits but it is the red that dominate the finish Monte Castrillo Tempranillo (Tinto del Pais) 100% Tasted in Spain October 2011 The nose has an attractive racy red fruited freshness with lots of raspberries and wild strawberries. Although the palate starts quite light it fills out in the middle still very red fruit in character. The tannins are fine and balanced by fruit sweetness. Red cherry and raspberry intermingle on the long finish. Monte Castrillo Tinto del Pais 95% Ribera del Duero Tasted at the winery October 2012 The mix of flavours on the nose is very black fruit driven lots of black plum, black cherry and sloe. Rich flavours pack out the palate the sweetness balanced to some extent by red cherry and this brings out some black pepper and spice. The finish has all of the black fruited power of the nose. Los Cantos de Torremilanos Tinto del Pais 95% Merlot 5% Ribera del Duero Tasted in Spain October Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

20 August 07, 2012 SPAIN The nose is serious full of black cherries rich and deep. The richness of the flavours fills out the palate deep and brooding but there is an underlying freshness that balances and lightens the power and gives more of a fragrant character on the finish. Tasted at the winery October The nose is rich dark fruited with damsons and black cherries. The tannins feel ripe the mid palate sweet quite lush but towards the back the flavours are fresher with more red cherry and a hint of spice. Torremilanos 2006 Crianza Tempranillo (Tinto del Pais) 100% Tasted in Spain October 2011 Black fruited power packs the nose with blackberry very much to the fore. The tannins are quite firm giving a backbone of structure but there is a balancing richness. The mineral bramble mix refreshes but the richness of the flavours is there filling out the back palate. Torremilanos 2009 Crianza Tempranillo (Tinto del Pais) 100% Tasted in Spain October 2011 The fruit feels sweet and ripe giving a fleshy richness on the nose. There is a lot happening on the palate a mix of red and black cherry and bramble serious, profound. The minerals and red fruit that show towards the back give a slightly lighter feel to the finish. Tasted at the winery October The nose is light with red fruited fragrances and the palate has lots of strawberry and raspberry. Towards the back it is richer some cassis and black cherry but the finish has the freshness of red fruits. Torremilanos 1985 Gran Reserva Tempranillo (Tinto del Pais) 100% Tasted in Spain October 2011 Behind the fruit on the nose, more red than black there is a charming nutty fragrance. The palate has some sweet black fruit with underlying fresh red fruits all well balanced. The tannins are ripe adding to the suppleness yet on the finish there is an attractive red fruited freshness. Torremilanos 1996 Gran Reserva Tinto del Pais 100% Ribera del Duero Tasted at the winery October 2012 The nuttiness of maturity shows behind the mix of red fruits on the nose. The flavours fill out on the mid palate some richer black fruits but the finish has a mix of fragrances red fruits hints of almonds and bramble. Torre Albéniz 2007 Reserva Tempranillo (Tinto del Pais) 100% Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 20

21 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Tasted in Spain October 2011 The nose has a deep brooding power packed with rich black and red fruits. The layers of flavour on the palate give complexity with the ripe tannins adding to the mid suppleness then towards the back raspberry and loganberry emerge giving a racier lighter more elegant feel to the finish. Torre Albéniz 2009 Reserva Tinto del Pais 100% Ribera del Duero Tasted at the winery October 2012 The nose is rich and ripe with a mass of black fruits damsons and black cherries. The palate feels lighter fresher at the start more red fruit in character but it is the black plum and cherry richness that fills out the finish. Cyclo Tempranillo 85% Garnacha 10% Tempranillo Blanco 5% Tasted in Spain October 2011 It has the freshness of raspberry and red cherry with an added complexity coming from the mix of bilberry and bramble. The mid palate is more profound quite black fruit dominated and this power of flavour gives richness on the finish. Cyclo Tempranillo 85% Garnacha 10% Tempranillo Blanco 5% Ribera del Duero Tasted at the winery October 2012 There are a lot of ripe flavours on both nose and palate ripe black cherry black plum and strawberry. The tannins are rounded the fruit on the palate fleshy and supple and although there is sweetness at the back a touch of bilberry brings out the black pepper on the finish Colección Tempranillo 100% Ribera del Duero Tasted at the winery October 2012 The nose is rich with lots of ripe fruit. Black fruits seem to dominate but behind the bramble and black cherry there is freshness of raspberry and mulberry that gives a lighter feel on the finish and brings out the black peppery spice. Colección Tempranillo 100% Ribera del Duero Tasted at the winery October 2012 Cassis dominates the black fruit giving richness on both nose and palate. The tannins are still quite firm but as they feel ripe that do not hold back fruit expression. Black cherry and sloe enriches the finish. 21 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

22 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Sparkling Wines Peñalba López Brut Nature NV 88 Viura 90% Chardonnay 10% Tasted at the winery October 2012 Although the nose is very crisp there are some sweeter flavours on the palate a hint of white peach and tropical fruit. The apple and lime towards the back refresh and give a slightly lighter feel to the finish. Peñalba López Brut Nature Viura 90% Chardonnay 10% Tasted in Spain October 2011 There is an attractive fragrant floral quality on the nose and this comes through on the palate. Despite being Brut Nature (no dosage) the mid palate has some attractive sweet fruit that helps to give a touch of richness on the back palate. Torres Penedès White Wines Vina Sol Parellada 100% Tasted in Lilley November 2015 Light, bright the nose is fresh and the start of the palate has a mix of citrus and apple. It feels richer in the middle with greengage and pear but citrus apple gives brightness and freshness on the finish. Viña Sol Parellada 100% Tasted at Celtic Haven Pembrokeshire August 2016 The fruit on the nose is fresh the palate richer and sweeter with fleshy ripe melon. Depth in the middle richness but at the back it is fresher crisp apple the finish citrusy and long. Sangre de Toro Garnacha Mazuelo Penedès Tasted in Santiago Chile February Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 22

23 SPAIN August 07, 2012 The fruit on the nose is fresh quite light with more red fruits than black. The palate has ripe flavours with mid richness but towards the back the red fruits refresh. Gran Coronas Cabernet Sauvignon Tempranillo Penedès Tasted at the Fells tasting September 2013 Black fruited the cassis is very much to the fore backed by red cherry. The tannins are ripe the mid palate supple and fleshy but towards the back the fresher flavours give a lighter feel and the finish is long stylish. Mas La Plana Cabernet Sauvignon 100% Penedès Tasted at the Fells tasting September 2013 Blackcurrant seems to dominate supported by firm black cherry a mix of flavours. The palate has depth and richness lots of power on the mid palate liquorice and coffee beans with at the back a touch of toasty oak. The tannins are still quite firm but underneath the fruit is sweet and ripe. Salmos Calificada Priorat Garnacha Tinta Syrah Cariñena Priorat Tasted at the Fells tasting September 2013 Black fruits dominate intense and rich with firm tannins on the start of the palate. The mid palate is richer with lots of black cherry and sloe yet towards the back bramble and bilberry refresh lighten and add complexity. Celeste Crianza Tempranillo 100% Ribera del Duero Tasted at the Fells tasting September 2013 Although the fruit on the nose feels ripe at the back there is a cherry bite and the sweetness on the palate is underpinned by freshness. There is a lack of depth and richness on the finish. Compania De Vinhos Tricó Rias Baixas White Wines Tabla de Sumar Albariño 100% Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

24 August 07, 2012 SPAIN The nose has rich flavours and the palate starts with a tropical fruit mix. Under the rich fruit citrus refreshes and lightens but at the back there is the sweetness of ripe melon and this fills out the finish. Tricó Albariño 100% Tasted at the Spanish Wine Fair London March 2014 Apricot gives richness on the nose and there is ripe melon fleshiness on the start of the palate. Grapefruit refreshes the mid palate bringing out the nuances of flavour and although the back palate is quite light it finishes with a good depth of flavour. Bodegas Txomin Etxaniz Guetaria Pais Vasco White Wines Chacoli (Trakoli) Hondarribi Zuri Hondarribi Beltza Tasted in Bilbao October 2012 The nose has a fragrant charm lemon flowers and limes and there is the same freshness on the palate. The slight spritz, the mix of limes, lemons and pickled green pepper refreshes with the fragrances lingering on the finish. Bodegas Le Val Rais Baixas White Wines Orbello Albariño Tasted at the Carlton Club July 2013 Lime fresh the nose is crisp salty and the palate is very citrus dominated. There is a hint of sweetness in the middle but back palate and finish are light crisp with lime and sea salt rather lacking in character. Orbello Albariño Tasted at the Carlton Club September 2015 Fresh on the nose the start of the palate has crunchy freshness a mix of citrus fruits. Tropical fruit in the middle gives a little more depth and richness but at the back there is lime and lemon freshness with a just hint of sea salt. La Val Albariño Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 24

25 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Tasted at the Wines from Spain tasting October 2014 Under the sweet fruit lime refreshes and the start of the palate has lots of limes and lemons. There is more depth in the middle richer pear but the citrus comes through at the back refreshing the finish. Bodegas Valdemar Araba Rioja Inspiración Valdemar Balcón de Pilatos Maturana Maturana Tinta 100% Tasted at Rioja 10 x 10 Banking Hall London October 2016 Ripe cherries the nose is sweet the palate has rich fruit with more black fruits in the middle. Lighter at the back a mix of flavours the redcurrant mulberry mix giving freshness but it finishes sweet with depth of flavour. Bodegas Valdubón Ribera del Duero Roble Tempranillo 100% Tasted at the Ribera del Duero tasting London October 2014 The oak is very prominent tending to overpower the red fruits on the nose. Firm in the middle with quite aggressive tannins and although there are hints of sweetness the finish is firm tight and quite short. Consecha Tempranillo 100% Tasted at the Ribera del Duero tasting London October 2014 Red cherry freshness on the nose the start of the palate is firm with quite obvious tannins. The fresh red fruits in the middle are backed by a hint of sweetness but it finishes with red cherry raspberry freshness. Valduero Aranda del Duero Ribera del Duero & Toro 25 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

26 August 07, 2012 SPAIN White Wines Albillo Vin de la Tierra de Castilla y León Tasted in Lilley March 2010 The nose has the richness of pineapple yet the freshness of greengage. The flavours give richness to the start of the palate but the apple freshness gives a crisper acidity to the finish. Valduero R Joven Tempranillo Tasted at the Wines from Spain Tasting London March 2008 Both nose and palate are very red fruited, all a bit dominated by high acidity. There does not seem to be enough fruit to show through against the acidity. Valduero Crianza Tempranillo Tasted at the Wines from Spain Tasting London March 2008 The nose is closed and the tannins on the palate tend to over dominate the fruit at this stage. Red fruits do show towards the back but they are quite light and may fade before the tannins mellow. Valduero Crianza Tasted in Lilley March 2010 The nose is packed with red cherry and redcurrant, vibrant and fresh. The bright fruit is there on the palate backed by sweeter strawberry, bilberries and bramble. The flavours are concentrated, rich and powerful spicy oak adds to the complexity towards the back. Una Cepa Crianza Tempranillo 100% Tasted at the Ribera del Duero tasting London October 2014 Ripe on the nose the palate is rich with a mix of sweet fruits. The fleshy sweet middle is backed by freshness with more red fruits in evidence but it fills out at the back with ripe fruited richness and a good depth of flavour on the finish. Valduero Reserva Tempranillo Tasted at the Wines from Spain Tasting London March 2008 The oak dominates and hides the fruit. Some sweet red flavours do show on the mid palate but the oak takes over and kills the finish. Arbucala Esencia Toro Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 26

27 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Tasted in Lilley March 2010 Youthful red and black cherry give freshness on the nose. The freshness is there on the palate but underpinned and fleshed out by sweet ripe blackcurrant and cherry. The tannins are ripe giving the richness, lush feel with behind lovely vibrant blackcurrant and cherry. Finca Valero Cariñena Tempranillo Garnacha Tasted on BA flight to Bucharest September 2014 Brambles, rosehips the nose is fragrant with a mix of flavours and the palate starts fresh red fruits and some black. The mid palate has more depth bramble jelly sweetness and the finish has a nice depth of flavour. Vall Llach Priorat Vall Llach Carignan 80% Cabernet Sauvignon 20% Tasted at the J & B tasting Vintners Hall September 2012 Cassis tends to dominate but there is behind bramble freshness. The mid palate is rich deep serious packed with sweet fruit the fleshy cassis balanced by fresher lighter fruits some bilberry and red cherry. Idus Carignan Grenache Tasted at the J & B tasting Vintners Hall September 2012 The nose is firm very black fruit in character. Rich flavours pack out the palate blackcurrant and black cherry the powerful rich mix underpinned by freshness that gives a slightly lighter feel to the finish. Embruix Carignan 90 % with 10% Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon Tasted at the J & B tasting Vintners Hall September 2012 Bramble and cassis intermingle with red cherry an exciting mix of flavours. The freshness brings out herbs and spices on the back palate but the finish is ripe fruited quite sweet. 27 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

28 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Valquejigoso Madrid White Wines Blanco Albillo 40% Viognier 30% Sauvignon Blanc 30% Tasted at the winery February 2011 The nose is very rich with a mix of apricot and peach. Ripe fruit gives a lush fleshiness on the palate but there is enough freshness from the Sauvignon to balance the richness. Dehesa D Valquejigoso Cabernet Sauvignon 30% Tempranillo 30% Syrah 15% Merlot 10%Negral 5% Tasted at the winery February 2011 The nose is packed with ripe fruit all very blackcurrant and blackberry in character. The mid palate is lush very smooth but under the sweetness there are some firm tannins giving structure. Right at the back there is a touch of peppery spice and just a hint of alcohol. V Cabernet Franc Tempranillo Garnacha Syrah Merlot Petit Verdot Negral Tasted at the winery February 2011 Although at first it seems very sweet lots of green figs behind there is fresher red cherry in evidence. The structure and freshness on the mid palate does not overpower the sweetness. It feels evolved with some maturity beginning to show on the finish. It just tends to lack a little complexity. V Cabernet Franc Tempranillo Garnacha Syrah Merlot Petit Verdot Negral Tasted at the winery February 2011 There is a lovely mix of fruits on the nose some fresh red fruits backed by richer black. The layers of flavour on the palate give complexity and the ripeness of the fruit a subtle fleshy richness. There is mid structure but the tannins are not aggressive and do not overpower the fruit. There is a hint of oak which should disappear with time. Negral Tasting from barrel Tasted at the winery February Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 28

29 SPAIN August 07, 2012 There is a lot of power on the nose all very black fruit driven. Some mid acidity helps to balance with an intriguing mix of black & red cherry on the finish. Tempranillo The nose is quite sweet but the palate very firm with structured tannins tending to dominate the fruit and leave the finish very tight. Syrah It is rather untypical as it seems very black fruit dominated and sweet. Some fresher fruit backed by pepper spice shows towards the back rather overpowered by the oak Syrah a different sandier block It is lovely and fresh all very red fruited. Although seemingly quite light in the middle there is sweetness to the fruit. Towards the back there is fresher red cherry backed by mint and cinnamon all quite elegant. Petit Verdot Mint overlays the mix of bramble and blackcurrant. The mid palate is firm its structure rather holding back full fruit expression. The racy herbal edge on the finish vies with the oak for dominance. Cabernet Franc It feels quite hot with fleshy sweet black and red fruit. There are tannins showing but they feel very ripe and the oak is all too dominant on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon Cassis and black plum give richness on the nose and the chocolate in the middle adds to the fleshiness. The tannins are firm all rather aggressive with drying oak showing through on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon same wine different cooper There is a lot of upfront fruit on the nose and the sweetness fills out the mid palate. Some fresher bilberry is there on the mid palate and although the tannins are firm they are not aggressive and the oak is not so obvious 2009 Cabernet Franc It is very sweet and fleshy with lots of ripe black fruits. Towards the back raspberry and red cherry show lifting the flavour a bit but the finish is chocolate rich. Cabernet Sauvignon The richness of black plum gives lots of flesh on the palate and although there is an underlying freshness the rounded tannins ensure a fleshy suppleness. 29 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

30 August 07, 2012 SPAIN Cabernet Sauvignon different plot It is rich and ripe on the nose but the palate is fresher with more of a black cherry and sloe influence. The back palate is rather too over dominated by alcohol Some out of vat some out of 225 litre cask Tempranillo out of vat There is a very attractive freshness about the nose and fresher raspberry and red cherry are in evidence on the palate. The freshness brings out the fragrances on the finish. Tempranillo different plot & out of cask The nose is quite tight with more of a black fruit character. There are more red fruits showing on the palate all a bit tight and slightly reduced. Syrah out of cask The nose has a strong aromatic cat s pee character. The mid palate is light slightly hollow but towards the back there is more character a mix of aromatic red fruits. Petit Verdot out of cask There is some rich fruit on the nose all very black fruit in character. The palate has depth with the fruit supported by tannic structure, firm but not aggressive. A touch of herbal spice enlivens the finish. Merlot out of vat There is some nice sweet plum on the nose and this fleshy richness comes through on the palate. The ripe middle is slightly over sweet but there is some freshness towards the back Cabernet Franc out of vat Dark chocolate enriches the blend of black fruits on both nose and palate. Under all of the richness there is the freshness of bramble and black cherry and this gives a lift to the finish Cabernet Sauvignon out of cask There is a lot of rich fruit very blackcurrant in flavour. The layers of fruit give complexity the tannins are rounded yet the fleshiness is balanced by fresher black cherry. Rioja Vega Rioja Crianza Limited Edition Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 30

31 SPAIN August 07, 2012 Tempranillo 80% Graciano 20% Tasted at the Vineyards Direct tasting Jesus Cambridge November 2015 Sweet and ripe the nose has mix of black fruits the start of the palate is fleshy and rich. Red fruits balance and lighten yet the fruit at the back is sweet and ripe the finish has depth and suppleness. Edición Limitada Tempranillo 85% Graciano 15% Tasted qt Rioja 10 x 10 Banking Hall London October 2016 Bright and fresh the nose has red fruits the palate wild strawberry and mulberry. Sweet fruit in the middle quite fleshy and supple but there is balance with freshness at the back and redcurrant freshness on the finish. Vega Del Rayo Rioja Vendimia Seleccionada Tasted at the Stone House Hotel Wensleydale September 2012 Red fruits and black fruits intermingle on the nose and give an attractive mix of flavours on the palate. The tannins are ripe the palate quite fleshy the richness though balanced by red fruits red cherry and mulberry the refreshing mix given a touch of spice by the herbal leafy character on the finish. It makes the ideal partner for the lighter meats such as lamb, pork and guinea fowl. Vendimia Seleccionada Tempranillo Mazuelo Tasted in Lilley December 2012 The nose has an attractive mix of red fruits and this freshness is there on the start of the palate redcurrants and raspberries. The mid palate is richer with bramble and some black cherry and this sweetness is there on the spicy finish. Vendimia Seleccionada Tasted in Lilley November 2013 The nose has a mix of fruits first bilberry and bramble then red fruits red cherry lots of complexity. The mid palate is quite lush the fruit supported by ripe tannins but under all of the sweet fruit there is freshness redcurrant and cherry and this brings out herbal leafy peppiness. Vega Del Rayo Vendimia Seleccionada Tempranillo 70% Mazuelo 20% Graciano 10% Tasted in Lilley April Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley

32 August 07, 2012 SPAIN The nose has a complex mix of fruits with on the palate the sweetness of the black fruits balanced by fresher red. Tempranillo grapes in the main but there is a small percentage of Mazuelo and Graciano adding to the complexity. Vendimia Seleccionada Tempranillo Mazuelo Tasted in Lilley January 2016 The nose has an attractive mix of fruits black fruits and fresher red fruits. The palate starts fresh with red cherry some raspberry and a touch of spice the complexity coming from the blend of Tempranillo and Mazuelo. The black fruit sweetness and richness on the back palate gives way to bitter cherry freshness the finish long and lingering Bodegas y Viñedos Vega Real Castrillo de Duero Ribera del Duero Vega Real Roble Tasted in Spain October 2011 Although the nose is very red fruited and fresh there is a sweeter feel to the start of the palate. The tannins are quite aggressive holding back the fruit giving a hollow middle and a firm short finish. Bodegas Vega Sicilia Valbuena del Duero Ribera del Duero It is one of the icons and not just amongst the wineries of Spain but features in the list of the World s greats, situated close to the Ribera del Duero, a river that crosses some of Spain toughest northern landscape. The estate is some 600 to 700 metres above sea level, extremes of temperature are the norm, cold nights even during the very hot days of summer, conditions that aid long ripening. The main grape is Tinto Fino, Tempranillo under another name, a grape that produces wonderfully complex flavours especially in the soil of the region, schist over chalk subsoil. The property, which today covers 1,000 hectares, 250 of them under vines, has had five owners in its 100 years of history. The land was first bought in 1864 by Don Eloy de Lecanda and then in 1900 by the Herrero family who held on to it for half a century. In 1950 Prodes SA acquired the property and sold it to Hans Newmann in The Newmann era was a glorious Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 32

33 SPAIN August 07, 2012 period for the wines so when the Alvarez family took it on in 1982 it was already world famous. Pintia % Tinta De Toro Tasted in London February 2008 After a cold wet winter, the spring was warm but with intermittent rainfall, the summer was baking hot. Some grapes were picked 5 to 8 th September with the remainder from the 17 th to 20 th. The malolactic fermentation took place in barrel (new oak, the split 70% French 30% American) and the wine was then aged in oak for a further 13 months. The fragrant aromas of violets are underpinned by raspberry and red cherries. At the moment the oak shows but it does not over dominate. Very intense, the red fruits are very much in evidence and although the tannins are firm they are not over aggressive. Leafy herbal flavours give a racy excitement on the finish. Valbuena 5o % Tinto Fino Malbec & Merlot 10% Tasted at Lincoln s Inn September 2011 There is a lot of powerful black fruit on the nose with the richness underpinned by a nutty character a mix of hazel nuts and almonds. The palate starts very rich with lots of black fruits but towards the middle it is fresher with more of a red fruited feel. The finish lacks some weight and intensity of flavour and the hazel nut character is very strong on the finish. Valbuena 5o % Tinto Fino Malbec & Merlot 10% Tasted in London February 2008 The winter was typical with frequent frosts and moderate rainfall, followed by a mild spring without damaging frosts. The summer was warm whilst September was at times untypically cold. The harvest took place from the 20 th to 26 th September. Behind the richness on the nose there are lots red fruits giving a vibrant freshness. The nose has real complexity, underpinning the fruit is vanilla and coffee, influences from the mix of American & French oak. Opulent black fruits flesh out the palate behind them a backbone of tannin, firm but not aggressive. The finish is very long, the fruit backed by black truffles and minerals with hints of menthol and thyme so very typical of Vega Sicilia. Valbuena 5 año Reserva Tasted in Segovia October 2012 The nose has a stylish fragrance the richer black fruits lightened and refreshed by some red cherry and bramble. The mid palate is power packed with fine tannins but then towards the back there are fresher flavours lightening and balancing. The mix of fruits gives complexity some serious and deep with lighter fresher flavours balancing and giving finesse on the finish. 33 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley