Harper's

March 2004

New Spanish Alliance

Alliance Wine is taking advantage of the new format for the Wines from Spain tasting to show a wide range of both new and old wines from all over Spain.

At the cutting edge of the new wave of Spanish wines are the whites from Rueda and Rias Baixas. Ermita Veracruz is a newcomer to the U.K scene but it has already attracted attention for it's top class Verdejo - full or rich, grassy, herbal fruit. Adegas Galegas have a wide portfolio of Albarino but their Rubines, from an old, established single vineyard has to be one of the most profound.

The spotlight has also been on the emerging region of Jumilla. Previously the home to some of Spain's most concentrated reds, it is now the home, thanks to modern winemaking methods, to a variety of well made wines. The Marques del Segura pair of varietal exemplifies the fruit driven, modern style now being seen.

For extraordinary value, look no further than the Coto de Hayas range from Bodegas Aragonesas. Produced in the Campo de Borja region, these wines are soft , supple and very typically Spanish - these wines offer many of the same qualities of Rioja but at a fraction of the cost.

The established Bodegas Luis Canas in Rioja has recently been the recipient of critical acclaim for its finely crafted reds - a combination of both modern and traditional styles. The more recent releases of Amaren and Hiru 3 Racimos illustrate the dedication to providing the finest that Rioja can offer.

Bodegas Guttierrez Colosia will be showing their exemplary range of traditional Sherries. Complex, beautifully made examples of much under valued wines.