BODEGAS ELVARA

Bodegas Marques de Reinosa

Located in the Basque country of northern Spain, this is the best known of all Spanish wine regions and the first to be accredited by the Consejo Regulador when it was established in 1926 to control production and quality. It comprises three sub regions, climate affecting the wine styles from each. In broad terms, Rioja Alta and Alavesa produce the more delicate wines and focus on the Tempranillo grape, whilst Rioja Baja wines are generally made with a higher proportion of Garnacha, due to the hotter, Meditarranean influenced climate in this area. Rioja is Spain's biggest wine exporter.

Whilst bodegas abound in Rioja and well-known brands continue to dominate, classic, traditional Rioja styles are increasingly being challenged by a new generation of winemakers who are creating contemporary styles ranging from alta expression reds to youthful, zesty whites and increasingly, rosados. Thus, Rioja is adapting to changing world trends and nowadays encompasses a palette of wines to suit all tastes.

The home of Vega Sicilia, Ribera del Duero is arguably one of Spain's most prestigious wine regions. Situated along the banks of the River Duero (which accommodates 5 D.O.s along its route), the high altitude vineyards planted at around 800mtrs, experience high diurnal temperature contrast.

The predominant grape grown is Tinta del Pais, a close relation of the famous Tempranillo grape. However, due to the region's unique climate, red wines from Tinta del Pais display quite different characteristics compared to the Tempranillo grape grown in neighbouring Rioja. White wines are not permitted under the Ribera del Duero designation.

Today, wines from this region are respected worldwide and are recognised as among the finest in Spain. This, however, is reflected in the price, and the proliferation of boutique wineries that have sprung up to challenge the more established producers.

TORO

High on the plains north-west of Madrid, this region takes its name from the medieval town of Toro, which sits on the river Duero, flowing east to west and providing for the vineyards on its way.

Rapidly establishing itself as one of the most exciting wine-producing areas in Spain, the principal grape is the Tinta de Toro, a variety of Tempranillo. At 600m altitude, with hot days and cool nights, the grape is able to concentrate its flavours, producing deep colour with intense fruit and tannins.

Other authorised grape varieties include Garnacha, Verdejo and Malvasia which are used to make good quality whites and rosados. However, red wines are the benchmark with all categories from jovenes, crianzas through to reservas and gran reservas. Reds must contain at least 75% Tinta de Toro.

The Rias Baixas, literally meaning lower estuaries, lies in the north-west corner of Spain in the most lush and green of all regions, Galicia, bordering the Atlantic coast and the Portugese border to the south.

The region is best known for the Albarino grape, indigenous to Galicia and also northern Portugal where it is known as Alvarinho. Other white grape varieties grown are Treixadura, Caino, and Loureira (or Godello). The temperate climate produces difficult growing conditions requiring high vineyard maintenance. This together with fragmented plantations and small-scale bodegas means the wines tend to sell at premium prices. Albarino wines are aromatic, fresh and elegant; and are deservedly  recognised as being the finest white wines in Spain and ranked among the best in the world.

CAVA