Spanish Reds to Warm the Soul for the Holidays

Tis the season for family, food, celebration, and wine. There are tons of different foods that people prepare for this festive time of year. In general, we tend to stuff ourselves with various rich foods (and sweets!). These foods warm our soul and satiate our appetites. The question here is what do you wash it down with or rather I should say what will you compliment those foods with? Here are some suggestions of Spanish reds that will hit the spot and pair with various holiday dinners and hors d' oerves.

Quixote from Pago Casa Del Blanco 2005 ($27). This red wine is from the La Mancha region in Spain. It is a delicious blend of Merlot, Tempranillo, and Petite Verdot. This full bodied wine gives aromas of stewed black and red fruits, tree bark, and pencil lead. In the mouth it gives dark fruits, red fruits, graphite, ink, cayenne pepper, and a long smooth yet powerful finish that is slightly tobasco-esque. This will be perfect for red meats, chicken, sausage, and flavorful rice and fish dishes (Paella), and powerful cheeses.
Mogar Roble by Pagos de Mogar 2004 ($18). This 100% tempranillo is from the exclusive region of Ribera Del Duero of Spain. This wine gives aromas and flavors of plum, blackberries and smoked meat. It is full bodied but is very rich, silky, and smooth. It finishes with gorgeous coffee, gamey, and plum flavors. A wine that everyone would appreciate. Serve with all meats and pasta dishes, as well as cheese.
Leza Garcia Reserva 2001 from Bodegas Leza Garcia ($18). This wine is from the famous Rioja region in Spain. It is a 90% tempranillo 10% garnacha blend aged in oak for 24 months and 12 monthes in the bottle. This wine delivers cherry,cranberry, spices, and a touch of wood on the nose and on the palate. Aging has brought out the best in this wine. The palate is round and medium to full bodied and long on the finish that shows a nice tannic quality. This is a very pretty wine. have this with meats, fish, cheese, and rice dishes.

So there you have it. These are some exquisite wines to share during this great time of year. I wish you all the best and hope you all have a happy, healthy, and bountiful holiday season and a prosperous new year. Cheers!