Heavy snow and sub zero temperatures en route from Valdepeñas did not prevent the Moraira-Teulada U3A wine group enjoying a brilliant November tasting.
Domingo, from the ever popular Corcovo Bodega in Valdepeñas, feared he might not complete the 430 km journey when the weather closed in around him. However, he made it through with his precious cargo to join locally based Franco Valori in presenting six wines on what was his 12th visit.
The two whites, one Rosado and three reds on offer recently won three Gold and three Silver medals in the annual Valdepeñas regional wine awards. They, and other wines from the bodega, have picked up yet more top awards in further widespread competitions.
The Verdejo – with its fresh smell and hint of gooseberries and green apples – went down a treat, as did the limited edition Airén 24 Barricas being trialled by the wine maker who has produced just 4,500 bottles.
The Rosado, described as ”fruit in a bottle” by the ever ebullient Franco, was well received and rightly so. It’s a constant Gold medal winner year after year.
The first red, a Syrah, made from the oldest grape variety on the earth, packed a serious punch at 15%.
The final two reds, both award winning Tempranillos – a three year old Crianza once selected to be served at the King of Spain’s wedding, together with the so smooth five year old Reserva, rounded off a memorable tasting.
Judging by the queue to buy wines at what was the last tasting before Christmas, Domingo will hopefully be happy to make a 13th visit to the group in the not too distant future.
Cheers everyone and a very Happy Christmas to all. Raise a glass to Pat and Brian Clarke for another year’s hard work organizing the tastings.
Review by Ian Graham, Photos by Jan Adams
