Rioja en el Fuego

A Rioja was selected #1 in the 2013 Wine Spectator Top 100, really cementing the region's standing as a major wine producer. At Joe Canal's, of course, we knew that all along, and shared that with our customers. Spain, in general, and Rioja in particular, produced many outstanding wines at decidedly reasonable prices. The wine of the year, Cune Imperial Rioja Gran Reserva 2004, was only $51.99 in the Bottle Club®, before it quickly sold out.

As you'll see in the map, Rioja is but one of many wine regions in Spain.

According to Wine Spectator, winemakers in Rioja were conflicted. "Beginning in the 1990s, a vigorous debate pitted traditionalist bodegas against a new wave of vintners. Should Rioja maintain the supple, elegant style that had flourished since the early 20th century? Or adopt a richer, more structured approach more in harmony with the world's other great reds?"

With a Rioja rated as the best wine of 2013, this is a great time to explore other Rioja wines, along with other Spanish selections, including Cava (sparkling) and Sherry (from Jerez).

Also in the 2013 Wine Spectator Top 100, coming in at 22, was the La Rioja Alta Rioja Vina Ardanza Reserva, which we have on sale in the Bottle Club® for only $29.99. This wine scored 94 points, and carries a retail price of $35. We have a few bottles of other high-scoring vintages of this wine; the 2001 (96 pts WS) and the 1998 (95pts WS).  

We carry three different Cerro Anon Rioja wines: the Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva, with prices as low as $11.96 in the Bottle Club®. The Gran Reserva is 80% Garnacha; it's balanced, complex, full and round. It spends two years in barrel, and another three aging in the bottle.

We also carry three different Anares wines, including a white Rioja, with pricing as low as $9.96 in the Bottle Club®. The white is 90% Viura, spends 6 months in oak, and is meant to be enjoyed within about a year of purchase.

Finally, you might try the 2009 El Coto Rioja Crianza, priced at $10.49. It's a tasty, cherry-accented Rioja that’s 100 percent Tempranillo, it’s aged for 12 months in oak barrels, which is the requirement for Crianza Riojas.

In checking Rioja to prepare for this article, I discovered Bodegas Ysios. While we don't carry their wines, I just thought this was one of the most breathtaking winery buildings that I'd ever seen.

On your next visit to Joe Canal's in Lawrenceville or Woodbridge, just ask one of our wine team members for their suggestions on great choices from Spain. From value prices to fine wine, we have the right wine for you.