Tracy IsemingerI LOVE when the Fed Ex man appears on my doorstep asking for a signature. Why? Because it usually means a new wine review has arrived. When I opened my latest package I was SOOO excited. In it was 3 bottles of Las Rocas and Martin Codax Wines from Spain. I have had a lot of Washington and Cali wines, so I am always super ready to try international varieties!
I had the opportunity to try 2 Spanish wines; Las Rocas 2009 Garnacha, Las Rocas 2012 Rose and 2011 Martin Codax Albarino.
The 2012 Garnacha is a red that embodies rich cherries and blackberries. Just a fine amount of oak gives it a flavor of perfection. Growing the grapes on the rocky slopes of dry Southeastern Spain give this wine an exceptional taste with a slightly higher alcohol content. At just $15/bottle, this wine is a perfect host gift!
The Las Rocas 2012 Rose was my biggest surprise. I am NOT a fan of Rose wines. Very sweet wines just do not appeal to me. The color of this wine however, really intrigued me. It was so bold and vibrant. Not a soft pink typical of so many Roses. When I opened the bottle, I immediately got a hint of strawberry and raspberry.
I still wasn’t convinced. How would it taste? I really was impressed. It was slightly sweet but very balanced with a bit of spice giving it full flavor without an overpowering fruit presence. I actually enjoyed just sipping on this wine without the accompaniment of food at all!
At $15/bottle, this wine is also very affordable.
The last bottle I tested was the Mardin Codax 2011 Albarino. I can honestly say I have never tried an Albarino.
It is a light and crisp white wine with apple, peach, pear and lemon hints with just a bit of spice. It is a dryer white with good acidity and is perfect for a seafood BBQ. I actually really enjoyed this wine. It really has a bright and bold flavor that blends into a nice smooth finish. My only problem was I did not have a second bottle!
Martin Codax wines can also be found for a retail price of $15 at local retailers.
Am I sold on Spanish wines? If they all taste like these three then I’d say YES! I can not wait to try more!
For more information on these wines, you can visit the official websites:
