It’s Tempranillo Day (in case you didn’t know)! If you’re not already a fan, Tempranillo needs to be moved to the top of your ‘Must-Try’ list. This grape is the King of Spanish reds, and for very good reason: it can be light and fruity, or deep, complex, and brooding. It makes a terrific Rosé and can bring structure and complexity to blended wines. This week’s example is Marqués de Cáceres Excellens Tempranillo, the perfect wine to let the grape shine all on its own.
Tasting Notes: Composed of 100% Tempranillo, Marqués de Cáceres Excellens Cuvée Especial is soft, ripe and full. The blue and black plum flavours slide over your palate while the tannins show a gentle texture and elegance. Toasted oak notes and vanilla round out the flavours and carry on though the balanced finish.
Enjoy With: Smoky dishes and grilled or seared meats, Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos or nachos, and Manchego or smoked Gouda cheese.
Style: A medium-bodied, smooth red wine.
Terroir/Region: The Marqués de Cáceres winery is located in Cenicero, La Rioja Alta, in the heart of the Rioja region of Spain. Cenicero is close to the Ebro River and possesses the ideal microclimate and soil for growing vines. The winery keeps close relationships with its local growers, continuing these relationships through generations of the growers’ families as well as their own.
Producer: In 1970 Enrique Forner founded Marqués de Cáceres to unify his vision for a region (Rioja, Spain), his enterprising family, and the best vine growers and vineyards in La Rioja. He styled the winery after those of Bordeaux, which revolutionized the production and business model with a single objective: quality. His obsession continues today with Cristina Forner, the next generation of this distinguished wine family.
Availability: Marqués de Cáceres Excellens Cuvée Especial 2017 will be available in the Vintages section of your local LCBO and for online ordering on Saturday, November 13, but a few stores may already have it on shelf. Happy Tempranillo Day!
Check LCBO store inventory
Price: $17.95
LCBO #: 10684
Size: 750 mL
Alcohol Content: 14.7% alc./vol.
