his is the first Wine Wednesday of the new year, and seeing as people may have over-indulged financially, I’m focusing on wines under $20. Yes, you will notice several Spanish reds in this list. There are two reasons for this, one they were included in a tasting I did a while ago and two, Spanish reds offer good quality for a reasonable price.
2012 Old Vine Garancha
Pablo
Spain
$14.99
Silver Medal
Tasted 2014 12
Garnet-black in colour with deep intensity. The nose is complex with aromas of violets, plums, dusty earth, blackberries and raspberries. Well balanced with firm ripe tannins. Bright red and black fruit flavours on the palate with a medium-long finish. Pair this with a medium-rare cross rib roast and Yorkshire pudding or grilled teriyaki flank steak.
2006 Tempranillo Gran Reserva
Anciano
Spain
$12.99
Silver Medal
Tasted 2014 11
Garnet red tinged with brick and medium-deep intensity. Stewed fruit, cherry, plum and meaty aromas on the nose. Well balanced with good structure. There is plenty of red fruit on the palate with a medium-long finish. Great value.
2013 Tempranillo (Organic)
Lobetia
Spain
$13.99
No Medal
Tasted 2014 11
Ruby / purple colour with medium intensity. This nose is quite shy; some red berries and cotton candy aromas. The balance is good though the tannins are grippy. Little fruit on the palate and a rather short, slightly harsh finish.
2003 Tempranillo Gran Reserva
Anciano
Spain
$17.65
No Medal
Tasted 2014 11
Garnet red tinged with brick and medium-deep intensity. Stewed fruit, spice and vanilla aromas on the nose. Acceptable balance with soft ripe tannins. Dried fruit on the palate and a medium-short finish. In my opinion, past its prime.
2013 Sangiovese
Cantina Tollo
Italy
$12.99
Bronze Medal
Tasted 2014 11
Garnet red with medium-deep intensity. Red fruit and berries, earth, spice and violets on the nose. Good balance and medium body. Clean on the palate with a medium finish. At only $12.99 for a litre bottle, this is a great deal.
