Many British wine enthusiasts instinctively reach for Rioja when selecting Spanish reds, and while this classic choice rarely disappoints, Spain's viticultural landscape offers a far richer tapestry of flavours and styles. From the cool, Atlantic-kissed vineyards of the north-west to the sun-drenched, volcanic soils of the Canary Islands, the country's red wine production is remarkably diverse. This exploration highlights four distinctive bottles that showcase regional character, offering both vibrant freshness and comforting depth perfect for the season.
Galician Elegance: Maruxa Mencía Valdeorras 2023
Hailing from the Valdeorras region in Galicia, this wine presents a compelling alternative to more familiar Spanish varieties. Crafted from the Mencía grape, often compared to Cabernet Franc for its aromatic profile, the 2023 vintage offers a bright and perfumed expression. Expect enticing notes of fresh cherry and violet on the nose, leading to a palate with a supple texture and a subtle, flinty minerality that adds complexity. It's a savoury, elegantly balanced red that demonstrates the refined potential of north-western Spanish winemaking.
Natural Approach: Davida No Added Sulphites Navarra 2024
For those curious about low-intervention wines, this Garnacha from Navarra provides an excellent and accessible introduction. The 2024 vintage is a vibrant, fruit-forward wine bursting with flavours of red berries, complemented by a floral aroma and a lightly stemmy character that adds texture without overwhelming funk. Its approachable style and the absence of added sulphites make it a particularly interesting pour for newcomers to the natural wine scene, showcasing how modern techniques can highlight pure fruit expression.
Classic Depth: Specially Selected Ribera del Duero 2024
Sometimes described as Rioja's more robust sibling, Ribera del Duero produces Tempranillo wines of notable structure and warmth. This 100 per cent Tempranillo offering from the 2024 vintage embodies the region's classic style. It presents a velvety, full-bodied experience, with gentle spice notes weaving through layers of dark plum fruit. The wine possesses a warm, deeply comforting quality, making it an ideal companion for colder evenings and hearty winter dishes.
Volcanic Character: Piedra Fluida Magec Tenerife 2023
Venturing to the Canary Islands, the Piedra Fluida Magec from Tenerife offers a truly distinctive expression. Grown in volcanic soils, this expressive red wine features intriguing aromas of dried wildflowers and earthy undertones. Its defining characteristic is a bright, lifting acidity that balances the wine's savoury elements beautifully. This versatile bottle can be served slightly chilled as an apéritif or paired wonderfully with umami-rich cuisine, such as a flavoursome mushroom risotto, highlighting its food-friendly nature.
This selection underscores the incredible variety within Spain's red wine offerings. Moving beyond the default choice allows drinkers to discover regions like Galicia, Navarra, Ribera del Duero, and Tenerife, each contributing unique terroir-driven styles that range from elegant and aromatic to powerful and comforting. Exploring these alternatives enriches the drinking experience and provides a deeper appreciation for Spain's vast winemaking heritage.
