A Tempranillo From Penedes Spain

A Tempranillo From Penedes Spain:

Wine Reviewed
Torres Coronas Tempranillo 2008 13.5 % alcohol about $13.

In the absence of marketing materials let’s start by quoting the back label. “Coronas has been and continues to be a silent testimony to our history. A wine that my family decided to make more than 100 years ago, combining the varieties of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon. Today its quality is recognized in more than 120 countries across the world. Unmistakable for its intense colour, and lush aromas of cherry and black plums on a background of green coffee. It is aged in oak barrels to achieve a soft, rounded sensation on the palate with a big finish. Serving Suggestion: Ideal with red meats, creamy cheeses and traditional paellas. Serve at 17-18º C (about 62.5-64.5º F) .” And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was dark and full bodied, tasting of dark cherries. Japanese rice crackers slightly weakened it but it rebounded when I gnawed on a Wasabi pea. My initial meal centered on slow cooked beef ribs. In response the wine’s oak came forward. I am not a fan of oak, but this time I was pleased. When paired with the side dish of okra in a tomato and garlic sauce the wine was thinner presenting somewhat harsh acidity and the taste of dark cherries. I doused the meat with Louisiana hot sauce and the libation responded with dark cherries and good balance. The fruit juice candy dessert partially muted the wine but it was still fairly powerful.

This review of A Tempranillo From Penedes Spain