A vibrant Spanish Sauvignon Blanc which can simply be enjoyed on it's own!

Tasting Notes : 

Aromatic intensity, with hints of tropical fruit, ripe melon, and greengage, whilst the palate is lifted with refreshing acidity and integration to the finish.

Viticulture

With a philosophy to maintain the traditions of the past whilst looking to the future, using the utmost care to manage their vineyards in a sustainable way in this harsh and increasingly marginal region. Soils are mainly stony, calcareous, sandy loam and clay. Yields are low due to the low rainfall, with the majority of vines bush trained. Winters are cold and summers extremely hot, with grapes harvested between September and late October.

Winemaking

Vinification is carried out in the most sympathetic and modest way possible, in mainly concrete tanks with they use temperature control to create wines of character and quality.

Producer Profile

Bodegas Alceño have been producing wine in Jumilla since 1870, making them one of the oldest to commercialise the wines of the region.

Now owned by Familia Bastida, winemaking follows modern techniques yet without losing the tradition and identity of this historical bodega.

Add a dash of tonic, soda or prosecco to create the perfect combination!

Tasting Notes

Floral and herbaceous aromas of wild strawberries, orange blossom and pastries, accompanied by almond notes. On the palate, spicy and herbaceous notes give way to a pleasant sweetness that leaves a smooth, silky feel.

Producers

During the early years, Bodegas Lustau operated as an ‘Almacenista'. The Lustau family began bottling their own sherries and exporting by 1950. In the 1980s they expanded their range and introduced the Almacenista range concept of buying and maturing casks from small bodegas to share excellent quality names and styles with enthusiasts around the world.

In 1990 the winery was bought by the family-owned Louis Caballero group. Bodegas Lustau is considered a world-class benchmark for top-quality wines. Lustau produces all styles of sherry, from Manzanilla through to Pedro Ximénez, as well as special bottlings, single cask, VOS and VORS sherries. The En Rama range, produced from select barrels from each of the three towns, is a highly anticipated release each spring.

Lustau has, over the years, won multiple medals and trophies, including ‘Best Spanish Winery' and ‘Best Sherry Producer' at the IWSC and the Len Evans Trophy for consistency (won in 2011 and 2016) at the IWC. Current cellar master Sergio Martínez took charge of the winery's oenological team in 2016, after more than 14 years' worth of experience with Lustau. Sergio has been awarded the ‘Best Fortified Winemaker' Trophy by the International Wine Challenge three years in a row, following in the footsteps of the late Manuel Lozano who had won this award seven times. In 2022, Lustau celebrated its 125th birthday with a special release of three sherries in their Anniversary Collection, including a Manzanilla Pasada Papirusa, Amontillado Solera del Castillo, and a Vintage Sherry Añada 1996.

Production

The NV Lustau Vermut Rosado is a distinctive rosé vermouth from Jerez, Spain, made by blending dry Fino, aromatic Moscatel, and fruity Tintilla de Rota wines. Into this base, Lustau infuses a carefully selected mix of ten botanicals—including wormwood, chamomile, cardamom, vanilla, and nutmeg—each individually macerated to retain their unique character.

The perfect Aperitif on the rocks!

Tasting Notes

Red mahogany in color with reddish hues. Sweet aromas of ripe fruit mingle with hints of citrus fruit and herbaceous notes, over a smoked wood base. On the palate it is flavorsome, velvety and balanced. A bitter finish, with a delicate and distinctive nutty aftertaste.

Producers

During the early years, Bodegas Lustau operated as an ‘Almacenista'. The Lustau family began bottling their own sherries and exporting by 1950. In the 1980s they expanded their range and introduced the Almacenista range concept of buying and maturing casks from small bodegas to share excellent quality names and styles with enthusiasts around the world.

In 1990 the winery was bought by the family-owned Louis Caballero group. Bodegas Lustau is considered a world-class benchmark for top-quality wines. Lustau produces all styles of sherry, from Manzanilla through to Pedro Ximénez, as well as special bottlings, single cask, VOS and VORS sherries. The En Rama range, produced from select barrels from each of the three towns, is a highly anticipated release each spring.

Lustau has, over the years, won multiple medals and trophies, including ‘Best Spanish Winery' and ‘Best Sherry Producer' at the IWSC and the Len Evans Trophy for consistency (won in 2011 and 2016) at the IWC. Current cellar master Sergio Martínez took charge of the winery's oenological team in 2016, after more than 14 years' worth of experience with Lustau. Sergio has been awarded the ‘Best Fortified Winemaker' Trophy by the International Wine Challenge three years in a row, following in the footsteps of the late Manuel Lozano who had won this award seven times. In 2022, Lustau celebrated its 125th birthday with a special release of three sherries in their Anniversary Collection, including a Manzanilla Pasada Papirusa, Amontillado Solera del Castillo, and a Vintage Sherry Añada 1996.

Production

The production of NV Lustau Vermut Rojo begins with a blend of two classic Jerez sherries—Amontillado for dry nuttiness and Pedro Ximénez for rich, velvety sweetness. Lustau infuses the sherries with 10 botanicals, including wormwood, gentian, and orange peel, each macerated individually to preserve their distinct character. After blending, the vermouth rests for six months to allow the flavors to fully integrate. No additional barrel aging is used post-infusion—its complexity comes from the aged sherries and the harmonization period, resulting in a bittersweet, aromatic aperitif steeped in Andalusian tradition.

Take a walk on the white side, because there is life beyond the red!

Tasting Notes

White Vermouth -  Floral, citrus, herbaceous, with almond notes and a subtle mineral background. Delightfully light and refreshing, with a distinctly bitter and dry finish, in which fine notes prevail.

Producers

During the early years, Bodegas Lustau operated as an ‘Almacenista'. The Lustau family began bottling their own sherries and exporting by 1950. In the 1980s they expanded their range and introduced the Almacenista range concept of buying and maturing casks from small bodegas to share excellent quality names and styles with enthusiasts around the world.

In 1990 the winery was bought by the family-owned Louis Caballero group. Bodegas Lustau is considered a world-class benchmark for top-quality wines. Lustau produces all styles of sherry, from Manzanilla through to Pedro Ximénez, as well as special bottlings, single cask, VOS and VORS sherries. The En Rama range, produced from select barrels from each of the three towns, is a highly anticipated release each spring.

Lustau has, over the years, won multiple medals and trophies, including ‘Best Spanish Winery' and ‘Best Sherry Producer' at the IWSC and the Len Evans Trophy for consistency (won in 2011 and 2016) at the IWC. Current cellar master Sergio Martínez took charge of the winery's oenological team in 2016, after more than 14 years' worth of experience with Lustau. Sergio has been awarded the ‘Best Fortified Winemaker' Trophy by the International Wine Challenge three years in a row, following in the footsteps of the late Manuel Lozano who had won this award seven times. In 2022, Lustau celebrated its 125th birthday with a special release of three sherries in their Anniversary Collection, including a Manzanilla Pasada Papirusa, Amontillado Solera del Castillo, and a Vintage Sherry Añada 1996.

Production

Lustau use the solera system to make their Vermut, which is unique to Jerez. Cellar Master Sergio Martínez looks after the sherry that make up the base wines, and selects the best ones for the Vermut. Lustau's Master Distiller Fernando Pérez selects the botanicals and is responsible for the final assemblage of the wines. Fermentation in stainless steel casks. 

Tasting Notes

Vibrant purple hues, typical of its youth combine with fresh red fruits and firm acidity. On the palate aromas of strawberry and raspberry  along with aromatic herbs from the vineyard, such as lavender, rosemary, and thyme.

Production

The grapes ferment with the native yeasts from our vineyard in stainless steel tanks. This wine spends a few months in the cellar, softening its tannins naturally, without any additives offering the purest and fruitiest expression of this Tempranillo..

Producer

The sixth generation of a family of winemakers and vine growers. Together with their team, they care for the vineyard daily with the goal of creating timeless wines that connect people. The values and knowledge passed on by the family have brought them to where they are today. Now, Adriana and Beatriz, represent this new era of Ochoa with courage, pride, and our unique style full of resilience, tradition, honesty, friendship and joy.

Specifications

Tasting Notes

A ruby-red wine with enticing aromas of cherries and dark chocolate. The palate is lighter than the bouquet, offering red fruits and a hint of licorice, supported by light, crisp tannins and a medium-length, smooth finish. A reliable and enjoyable red wine.

Producer

Nuviana is part of the iconic Codorniu group of wine companies who are still today a family business (albeit with dozens of family shareholders). They own some of the oldest vineyards in Spain and a handful of the best wineries in the world including Bodega Septima in Argentina, Bodegas Bilbainas in Rioja and Raimat and Nuviana in Northern Spain.

Nuviana is based in Aragon and is located in an important conservation area for migrating birds, the word Nuviana deriving from the Latin Novelliam which means a nest of newly-born birds. The winery is a new concept using advanced technology which incorporates the comprehensive management of production from the beginning. The results are self-evident with each of the white, rosé and red wines delivering the exact organoleptic properties desired.

Specifications

Tasting Notes

A bright, light rosehip hue with a full, fruity aroma reminiscent of raspberries. The flavor profile is rich and diverse, featuring redcurrants, raspberries, and a hint of sour cherry acidity. Medium-bodied, the finish is crisp yet not overly dry.

Producer

Nuviana is part of the iconic Codorniu group of wine companies who are still today a family business (albeit with dozens of family shareholders). They own some of the oldest vineyards in Spain and a handful of the best wineries in the world including Bodega Septima in Argentina, Bodegas Bilbainas in Rioja and Raimat and Nuviana in Northern Spain.

Nuviana is based in Aragon and is located in an important conservation area for migrating birds, the word Nuviana deriving from the Latin Novelliam which means a nest of newly-born birds. The winery is a new concept using advanced technology which incorporates the comprehensive management of production from the beginning. The results are self-evident with each of the white, rosé and red wines delivering the exact organoleptic properties desired.

Specifications

Tasting Notes

Masses of black fruit aromas with subtle tobacco and chocolate notes. Rich and concentrated, the tannins are smooth and well integrated and leads to a long lingering finish.

Producer

Ever since 1983, when Principe de Viana opened its doors in Murchante, the company has plotted a path of stunning success and in only 25 years has become one of the principle and most prestigious wineries in Navarra. Carlos III of Navarra gave four thousand gold pieces to the messenger who announced to him the birth of his grandson, Carlos. Such was his joy and so great were the hopes he pinned on this child that would one day merit the crown. And before the child was two years old, in a bid to distinguish him with a majestic and previously unknown title, he was crowned Principe de Viana. “Bestowed in Tudela on the twentieth of January from the birth of our Lord 1423. To the King.” History wanted it another way, and the Noble King soon died and Blanca, his daughter, and her husband rose to the throne with the young Prince spending time either with his head in the classics or at court. But his mother’s death which should have meant his imminent coronation, in fact revealed his fathers grand ambitions. The all-powerful Juan, refused the crown to his son, the legitimate heir, and started a civil war against him. Carlos was forced to flee on a journey which took him to París, Rome, Naples and Barcelona, where he ended up living out his life without his true rights. His remains were transferred to Poblet and he has always been revered as a hero and a saint and even now is referred to in history as a defender of law and human rights. The legend was born in 1423. The Principe de Viana. Ever since, the title has been bestowed on all heirs to the throne of Navarra, first, and then to Spain, latterly, until the appointment today of his Royal Majesty, don Felipe de Borbón, the King. In this way, over the course of five centuries the title of Principe de Viana has become a symbol of tradition, continuity and renovation. The winery is proud to still carry the name and spirit.

Vinification

Aged for 14 months in 225 litre barrels, 50% French and 50% American oak.

Specifications

Tasting Notes

crafted from Tempranillo and Garnacha grapes. It showcases ripe red berry aromas, complemented by vanilla and chocolate nuances. The palate is bright and fresh, with flavors of poached red cherry, subtle spice, and a smooth, lingering finish

Production

The wine has remained in American and French oak barrels for 16 months with periodic racking and 6 months of refining in the bottle.

Producer

Bodega Eduardo Garrido García is a family-run boutique winery located in Ábalos, La Rioja Alta, Spain, a region with over 500 years of viticulture history. Founded in 1923 by Vicente Garrido, the winery has been passed down through generations, with Eduardo Garrido continuing the tradition and now joined by Amelia Garrido, representing the third generation of winemakers.

Situated at 600 meters above sea level, the winery benefits from a unique microclimate, influenced by the Cantabrian Sea winds, and calcium-rich clay soils, which contribute to the elegance, fruitiness, and strong bouquet of their wines. Specializing in Rioja wines, the winery produces Tempranillo, Viura, Garnacha, Mozuelo, and Graciano varieties

Specifications

Tasting Notes

This pale straw-yellow wine offers fruity aromas with apple notes, creating a refreshing and approachable profile.

Production

The Viura grape, also called Macabeo, is used preferably in the production of Rioja white wines. Its main characteristic is the production of wines with acidity. Therefore, young wines are very fresh. It allows to age the wines in the bottle, as well as in oak barrels. It is also used for the elaboration of the cavas. 

Producer

Bodega Eduardo Garrido García is a family-run boutique winery located in Ábalos, La Rioja Alta, Spain, a region with over 500 years of viticulture history. Founded in 1923 by Vicente Garrido, the winery has been passed down through generations, with Eduardo Garrido continuing the tradition and now joined by Amelia Garrido, representing the third generation of winemakers.

Situated at 600 meters above sea level, the winery benefits from a unique microclimate, influenced by the Cantabrian Sea winds, and calcium-rich clay soils, which contribute to the elegance, fruitiness, and strong bouquet of their wines. Specializing in Rioja wines, the winery produces Tempranillo, Viura, Garnacha, Mozuelo, and Graciano varieties

Specifications

Dominio de Punctum Pomelado Orange is a fantastic example of natural wine, providing an exciting and unique wine experience.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, it offers a bouquet of citrus fruits, floral notes, and a hint of herbaceous freshness. The wine’s skin contact fermentation gives it a beautiful amber hue and adds complexity to its flavor profile. On the palate, Pomelado Orange is vibrant and well-structured, with flavors of ripe orange peel, tropical fruits, and subtle spice notes. The wine’s slight tannins and natural acidity provide balance, leading to a crisp and refreshing finish.

Producer

Dominio de Punctum Pomelado Orange is a lively and aromatic orange wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Produced by the family-owned Dominio de Punctum winery in Spain, this wine is a prime example of the emerging trend of natural winemaking, offering a fresh and expressive take on the orange wine style.

Specifications

Tasting Notes

This golden, almost amber coloured wine has a very intense, appealing nose of sweet tropical fruits, peach, apricot, citrus fruits and some spice. The palate is packed full of white fleshed and stone fruits, with the medium body ending with a long sweet finish, supported by crisp acidity. Clean and fresh, very mineral, hints of honey and plenty of persistence.

Producer

Owner & winemaker, Rosalia Molina, makes organic wines in one of Spain's highest altitude wineries. Her mission is to make wines that express the typicity of DO Manchuela: the vineyard, the altitude and the varieties planted.

This is a climate on the edge of what is possible: at 1,100 metres above sea level, the grapes experience a large diurnal range that encourages even ripening and helps to retain natural acidity. Rosalia's vineyards are certified organic, she uses only natural fertilisers, promoting biodiversity by welcoming chickens, sheep and pigs from local farms to roam the vineyards freely. Grapes are hand harvested and vinified as naturally as possible with native yeasts and little other intervention. The wines are then aged in clay amphora and some in French oak to give texture and complexity.

Winemaking

Harvested in January, when the grapes have frozen due to temperatures remaining below minus five degrees for at least five days but never below minus 13 degrees. These weather conditions mark the beginning of the harvest, which is why it is only produced in exceptional years. A manual harvest of frozen but healthy grapes without any trace of rotting are quickly pressed in the same vineyard as the grape, with the ice crystals still in the grape causing s a high concentration of sugars in the must and plenty of acidity. Due to the dehydration, this improves the extraction of aromatic components.

As the water is first to freeze within the grape, an increased concentration of sugars are obtained from the must. The grapes must be pressed before the ice crystals break down. The yeasts for fermentation are native, providing much of the character and personality of the terroir. Fermentation is a very slow process, it can take 2 to 3 months and is carried out in small stainless steel tanks to provide a completely natural wine, with no added sulphites and the stabilisation and clarification are also a natural sedimentation process.

Specifications

Both the style, quality and winemaking reflect a youthful Gran Reserva. This is a top quality field blend from Gómez Cruzado's oldest vineyards, labelled without any age statement to give a contemporary apoproach to the classic Rioja categories.

Tasting Notes 

Wow! A fruit-packed nose with flavours of dark plums, black cherry and fresh figs. This is balanced by creamy oak notes and Christmas spices. On the palate the 2019 is approachable now with a huge amount of richness and tannin, but a rounded mouthfeel shows this wine is perfectly in its drinking window. However, the immense concentration on display and elegance from the bright acidity suggests this wine will develop for at least another 10 years in bottle.

Production

This 'field blend' is produced from the fruit of Gomez Cruzado's oldest vineyards (over 50 year old vines) - south-east facing, in the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria. The vines planted here are predominantly Tempranillo, but also Garnacha, Graciano, Mazuela and Viura. Soils are poor, chalky clay and white in colour, with slabs of calcareous rock beneath. The grapes are hand-picked into 15kg crates, and are sorted further by hand at the winery. The grapes undergo 4 days pre-fermentative maceration at low temperature, then temperature-controlled fermentation with daily remontage and delestage. Malolactic fermentation takes place in new oak barriques with weekly batonnage, followed by 18 months maturation in new French, thin-grained, oak

Producer

The Gómez Cruzado winery dates back to 1886 when Angel Gómez de Arteche started to produce and bottle his own wine in Haro, at the very heart of Rioja Alta. This was in the day when the wine trade between Rioja and France passed along the Tudela-Bilbao line, and the key Rioja wineries were located around the station of Haro. The winery sits just 100m from the station to this day.

Subsequently bought by Angel and Jesus Gomez Cruzado in 1916, and more recently by the Baños family, winemaker Juan Bautista Sáenz crafts wines from vineyards of old bush vines in the most elevated areas of Rioja Alta and Alavesa. He sources from almost a hundred different plots across 3 distinct regions: Alto Najerilla, Bajo Najerilla and Sierra Cantabria. Sierra Cantabria (Rioja Alta and Alavesa). Vines grow in poor, white, chalky-clay soils, on sunny slopes at the highest part of the sierra (up to 750m altitude) - where the Mediterranean and Atlantic climates meet. The area produces wines with freshness and elegance. Bajo Najerilla (Rioja Alta): in the triangle formed by the villages of Uruñuela, Cenicero and Torremontalbo, where the Najerilla river flows into the River Ebro. Tempranillo vines grown in alluvial soils at an average altitude of 500m – in a warmer, more temperate continental climate with a notable Mediterranean influence. Wines have high maturity and excellent ageing capacity. Alto Najerilla (Rioja Alta): Garnacha vines over 80 years old, planted in ferrous clay soil at around 750m altitude, on north-facing slopes near the Sierra de la Demanda. The continental climate confers strong fruitiness and marked acidity on the resulting wines.

Sustainability

In the winery, Gómez Cruzado is constantly making incremental improvements such as reducing its use of sulphur, using more recycled and recyclable materials, and reducing its energy and water waste through investment in energy-efficient practices and implementation of water conservation programmes. Gómez Cruzado’s vineyard efforts are centred around preserving its old bush-trained vines from which it can create great wines, strongly rooted in their terroir. Historical practices of sustainable and thoughtful viticulture and winemaking are also continued as they are both a part of the estate’s cultural legacy and a part of its commitment to respecting and protecting the environment in the future. All vineyard work is done manually. The estate is also examining the possibility of a move towards gaining organic certification and certification under the Decalogue of Integral Sustainability for the Agri-Food Industry.

Awards

• 2016 Vintage - Wines from Spain 2022 = Winner

Specifications

Specifications

‘The Convert’ – this might the wine to convert more of your friends to organic! 

Tasting Notes

On the nose, it is ripe and vibrant with fresh blackcurrant and blueberry, accompanied by a faint herbal, almost seaweed character. The bundles of freshness on the palate make this Syrah a true pleasure to drink. Textural, this is a wine that exceeds expectations.

History

El Convertido loosely translates to 'the converter' and tells the story of La Mancha, the world's largest wine region, which is gradually transitioning to a more sustainable future. The conditions are ideal for organic viticulture and that is what family business De Haan Altés wants to show with this Syrah

Specifications

A beautiful glass of white wine Spain's La Mancha, this Verdejo stands out from the rest.

Tasting Notes

Expressive nose of gooseberry, apple and white fruit. Fruity wine with a nice balance of white fruit and fresh acidity.

History

El Convertido loosely translates to 'the converter' and tells the story of La Mancha, the world's largest wine region, which is gradually transitioning to a more sustainable future. The conditions are ideal for organic viticulture and that is what family business De Haan Altés wants to show with this Verdejo. 

Specifications

Tasting Notes

Nose

Bright ruby to dark purple in colour, it promises plenty of power.The nose is complex with powerful aromas of blackberry and blueberry with, rose, rosemary, violets and floral notes as well as a hint of spice. 

Palate

The palate is nicely concentrated and with fine tannis. The flavours of blueberry, plum and blackberry are big, with hints of bittersweet cocoa and a subtle stimulating flavour of mint and violet, dark cherry, blackberry, red plum, earth, espresso, tobacco, dark chocolate, black pepper, black tea, violet. Very complex.

Producer

Owner & winemaker, Rosalia Molina, makes organic wines in one of Spain's highest altitude wineries. Her mission is to make wines that express the typicity of DO Manchuela: the vineyard, the altitude and the varieties planted.

This is a climate on the edge of what is possible: at 1,100 metres above sea level, the grapes experience a large diurnal range that encourages even ripening and helps to retain natural acidity. Rosalia's vineyards are certified organic, she uses only natural fertilisers, promoting biodiversity by welcoming chickens, sheep and pigs from local farms to roam the vineyards freely. Grapes are hand harvested and vinified as naturally as possible with native yeasts and little other intervention. The wines are then aged in clay amphora and some in French oak to give texture and complexity.

Winemaking

Never harvested before the 12th October and always by hand. The colour is extracted in 6000 litre inox tank. Skin contact for 2 to 3 weeks at a controlled temperature before an alcoholic fermentation which is spontaneous, with gentle pumping over for 5 weeks. Pressed directly to 3rd use, 225 Litre French oak barrels, where the malolactic fermentation takes place, also in a natural and spontaneous way for about 4 months. Aged for 4 months in 50% oak barrel and 50% in clay amphoras. Stabilisation is also natural and during the coldest months, temperatures can go to minus 15º C.

Specifications

Obscure yet delicious premium Spanish White!

Tasting Notes 

This is the tenth vintage of Florpower (MMXXII, i.e., 2022), and released as La Bota 119 in the series. An unfortified white wine which follows vintage 2010 and 2012 (releases 44, 53 and 57) in origin and winemaking practices, and even more the 2014-2021 vintages (releases 67-114). With 2022 they continue to search for the point of balance and freshness, the perfect expression of the vineyard through the biological ageing process, which is now shorter than in the pioneering vintages.

Production

Exclusively from Palomino Fino sourced from vines aged between 55 and 85 years old in the blessed plot known as Pago Miraflores La Baja, Sanlúcar.  In this vintage they have dispensed with tenuous ageing under flor in steel tanks after intense biological aging in traditional 600-litre Sherry casks. The wine is fermented in the same casks in which they later aged under flor for eight months until bottling at the end of May 2023.

Producers

Equipo Navazos was born out of a group of friend’s passion to share the authentic, traditional wines of Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, El Puerto de Santa Maria and Montilla … legitimately some of the greatest wines of the world!

These wines come from soleras and individual casks that remain, relatively neglected by the market in corners of many of Andalusia’s most prestigious bodegas. These unexpected yet fortunate findings have been made available to wine lovers around the world in limited quantities under the La Bota series (consecutively numbered editions, with the date of each saca or withdrawl date on the label) … in doing so respecting generations of expertise and care for these rare and beautiful wines. Today their efforts are increasingly focused on producing their own exceptional wines, such as Florpower, that truly express the character of Sanlúcar and its unique terroir. Outside of Andalusia, Equipo Navazos have collaborated with winemakers including Dirk Niepoort and Sergi Colet to develop authentic and individual wines that never fail to impress.

Specifications

This amontillado is a rare and exclusive treasure, with just 1,000 375ml bottles available, each drawn from a single cask that boasts an average age of 15 years. Its elegance and finesse are unmatched, and with a natural alcohol strength, it remains unfortified, preserving its authentic character.

Tasting Notes 

This embodies finesse with its rich, gourmet and wonderfully unique character. The perfect Amontilado from DO Montilla-Moriles, combines elegance with complexity and has a sensory appeal which shows a definite sense of place.

Production

The white chalky soils of the hills South of Montilla (Sierra de Montilla) and surrounding Moriles (Moriles Altos) are ideal for the cultivation of Pedro Ximénez grapes which produce the traditional wines for which Andalucía is well known among wine lovers. The Montilla-Moriles appellation, located in the province of Córdoba some 200 km away from Jerez, have produced for centuries these traditional wines.

Producers

Specifications

Fernando de Castilla have added another vermouth to their portfolio - made from Palomino and Moscatel grapes and produced in Jerez.

Tasting Notes 

The nose has pronounced moscatel grape and spice aromas. Semi-sweet and persistent on the palate, with characteristic wormwood notes alongside clove and thyme.

Production

Specifications

A fantastic Jerez vermouth made from old Pedro Ximenez and oloroso sherry combined with 27 botanicals. Vermut has been brought back to life!

Tasting Notes 

Marvellously mahogany in colour with rich aromas of dried fruit, nuts and herbal notes. Full-flavoured, silky and sweet with a characteristic, refreshing, yet bitter bite from the wormwood.

Production

Specifications

Light, elegant with plenty of summer-pudding red berry fruit. Light oak adds weight and concentration. The vibrant violet, cherry fruit is typical of good Tempranillo Rioja.

Tasting Notes

Colour

Red colour with blackish tones

Nose

Good intensity, fresh, floral and red berries.

Taste

Medium body, easy drinking, fruity and fresh with mouth-watering acidity.

Producer

Santiago Ijalba has been making wines for over half a century and founded Bodegas Santalba (a fusion of his first and last name) in 1964. Joined by his son Roberto and daughter Laura over the last decade, Roberto concentrates his wine making expertise on the more modern styles, while Laura focuses her attentions on the marketing side, making Bodegas Santalba a real family affair. 

Specifications

The spirited red wines of Spain | A fabulous quality and great value Reserva from a small family, producer.

Tasting Notes 

Colour

In the glass a cherry red color with rusty red reflections of medium depth.

Nose

Good aromatic intensity, with balsamic notes and ripe fruit on the nose.

Palate

Soft and clean on the palate with a fresh and elegant taste and well-integrated tannins on the finish.

Producer

Specifications

 Supple, full-flavoured Rioja Reserva, drinking beautifully.

Tasting Notes 

Reservas are only produced in years of exceptional quality - and from the most select vineyards.

Nose

Aromas of bramble fruit with spice and lightly floral notes

Palate

On the palate, plum and ripe blackberry fruit flavours combine with ample acidity, minerality, and earthy notes. Tannins are smooth and supple as you would expect from an eight-year-old wine, and it is drinking beautifully

Production

Reservas are only produced in years of exceptional quality - and from the most select vineyards. The Tempranillo is sourced from La Pasada, and the Graciano from La Montesa vineyard. After a long maceration, the wine spends 12 months in 60% American and 40% French oak (both used and new), followed by 24 months in bottle.

Producer

Bodegas Ontañón is a 5th generation family-owned and run winery in Rioja Baja (now Rioja Oriental). Here Raquel, Rubén and Maria Pérez Cuevas continue their father Gabriel's work to develop Bodegas Ontañón into one of the most highly-regarded wineries in Rioja. Ontañón has vast swathes of vineyard in this part of Rioja. Whilst wine production in the region is typically very dependent on contracts with grape growers, the Pérez Cuevas family has seen fit to invest heavily in the purchase of its land and vines. Its 250ha is a testament to the importance it places on controlling grape quality.

The family's vineyards sit high in the Sierra Yerga mountains in the prestigious region surrounding Quel, defying misconceptions that Rioja Baja is one of the lesser sub-regions within Rioja. Many of their vineyards are planted at altitudes on a par with, or above, those in Rioja Alta and Alavesa; (La Pasada is their highest vineyard at 800m above sea level, planted in 1979 it is used for Reserva and Gran Reserva wines). The hot and dry Mediterranean climate allows for consistent ripening of the grapes with little disease and this has enabled them to pursue organic production across 57 hectares of vines.

Sustainability

Currently run by the fifth generation of the Pérez Cuevas family to carry on the tradition of grape growing in the southern part of Rioja, they take great pride in maintaining their vineyards in the most sustainable manner possible as it is their land that supports their family’s craft. As well as farming organically and producing a range of organic wines, Bodegas Ontañón employs a range of other sustainable processes.

These include controlled irrigation systems to reduce water usage and evaporation; planting vineyards in cooler, well-ventilated areas to reduce irrigation requirements and phytosanitary treatments; using plant/grass cover in vineyards to improve soil texture, to reduce tractor working hours and to lower carbon dioxide emissions; using environmentally friendly phytosanitary products that break down quickly and harmlessly; planting several hectares of pine forest near the vineyards in Ausejo and tidying and maintaining the oak forest near the vineyards in Quel. They are a carbon-neutral operation, meaning the facilities no longer emit CO2 to the atmosphere. The watering systems in the vineyards are supplied through solar power. It encourages its workers to carpool from its winery to its vineyards to reduce emissions.

Awards

• Silver at the 2021 Decanter World Wine Awards (2015 Vintage)

Specifications

Traditional Rioja Reserva

Tasting Notes 

Nose

A traditional Rioja Reserva from vineyards in Rioja Alta with a nose of warm black fruit, spice and vanilla notes.

Palate

The palate has ripe plum and damson characters balanced by well-integrated oak, supple tannins and gentle cedary spice on the finish.

Production Method

This wine is produced from selected Tempranillo, Mazuelo and Graciano grapes sourced from 30 to 40-year-old Rioja Alta vineyards whose distinctive stony soils are ideal for the long, even ripening of quality grapes. The fruit is hand harvested in mid-October. Each variety is fermented separately in small tanks using natural yeasts at 28-30° C. After 20 days on the skins the wine is gently pressed and racked to stainless steel tanks for malolactic fermentation. The clear wine is then racked to 2nd and 3rd year American and Russian oak barrels for 24 months maturation before blending and bottling.

Alan's Personal Tasting Notes

"This is good! Everything I would expect from a well made, traditional Rioja - bright fruit - some vanillin and spice from good oak integration and soft, smooth tannins giving a very well balanced and long finish." Tasted April 2024

Specifications

Tasting Notes

Colour

Vanidade Albarino is a straw yellow wine with an alluring complexity and depth. 

Nose

Experience the bright, greenish glints and ripe citrus & peach aromas, followed by a crisp start and broadness that will leave you captivated.  

Palate

Those fruits also feature on the intensely flavoured palate, fresh and zesty, no shortage of acidity,  with a slightly salty tang, plus the starting fruit all the way through to a clean and refreshing finish.  

History

In 2000, a group of winegrowers dreamed up what is today, Vina Almirante, a winery made up of 80 partners and families with 45 hectares. Located in Portas in the Umia Valley of Galicia, on the banks of the Chaín River, Vina Almirante sits in an enclave with its own geographical and meteorological conditions that largely mark the character of the vineyards. Portas is synonymous with history, origin and culture. In the 12th century, history reveals that King Ferdinand II of León donated the first known Albariño plantation to the Cistercian monks, the 'Paradisus' estate, in Santa María de Portas.

Vinification

A marriage of musts obtained by direct drawing off, balanced by grapes subjected to a process of cryomaceration. This method adds sumptuousness in the mouth and a notable aromatic complexity. Good balance of acidity and the natural persistence of the Albariño grape. Full destemming, partial cryomaceration, pneumatic pressing, static racking by cold decanting and then fermentation in stainless steel vats at 17ºC.

Specifications

Tasting Notes

Colour

Yellow with greenish glints, dense, voluptuous.

Nose

Complex nose with ripe fruit aromas, intense apricot and peach tones as well as acid, fleshy fruits, but retaining prominent floral tones and natural fragrances.

Palate

Dense, enveloping, fragrant, with plenty of breadth in the mouth and a lingering aftertaste. Its crispness and moderate acidity give it a rich-tasting process and a long finish.

History from the Producer

In the year 2000, a group of wine growers dreamed up what is today Viña Almirante, a winery made up of 80 partners and families who live by and for wine. We were inspired by the historic past of Portas (Galicia / Spain) and the legacy of geographer Domingo Fontán, an illustrious local figure who helped us to realise that on the basis of emotional cartography, we could make outrageously personal wines.

When going out into the world was not a priority, we made it one. Today we have a presence in more than 20 countries. It excites us to think that at any time, somewhere in the world, our wines are a part of someone’s life. Nothing motivates us more.

On the basis of exploration we have understood our region and our vines. We have always believed in the distinctiveness of our terroir, in nature and in the meaning of hard work. Every day in the vineyard is an opportunity to try to improve the next harvest.

We’re in A Peroxa (Portas), in the Umia Valley, beside the river Chaín. A place with its very own geographical and meteorological conditions, which largely determine the character of our vineyards. We also have a small percentage of vines in the heart of the Val do Salnés, giving us lots of possibilities to work with to make highly personal wines.

We don’t have a magic formula like that brand you’re thinking of, just hard work, exploration, analysis and confidence in the 45 hectares of vineyards we have dotted about the whole area. Every year is an adventure, a challenge packed with uncertainty, effort and one sure thing: that no two harvests are the same, and that inspires us.

Portas is synonymous with history, origins and culture. That of Galicia, and that of our local ancestors. History tells that in the 12th century, King Ferdinand II of León gave the Cistercian monks the first plantation of albariño grapevines on record, the Paradisus estate in Santa María de Portas.

In the bronze age, the land we work today was the home of the Gallaecian Cileni, and much later it was the home of different lineages of illustrious figures. Traits of its identity remain alive in the form of stone, monuments and memories. We appreciate our present while admiring our past.

Vinification

Must obtained by direct drawing through gentle pressings. Grapes from the Capellanía de San Juan estate in Portas (Val do Salnés). Identity, strength and expression. Aged for 12 months in vat, 3 months in bottle. Wine with a long evolution and excellent ageing. Destemming, gentle pneumatic pressing, static racking by cold decanting. Fermentation in stainless steel vats at 17ºC.

Alan's Personal Tasting Notes

"At first I was a bit dubious about this one - at £15 a bottle and a slightly questionable label I was concerned about its ability to follow through. However, it’s a stonker - the most obvious character it has breadth of flavour - a real broad appeal with lovely stone fruit flavours, delicious acidity and a real complexity, all with no oak involvement. Absolutely delicious from a relatively unknown grape variety - Caino Blanco." Tasted December 2023

Specifications

These expertly crafted, artisanal wines were borne out of a passion project to revive old vines in this corner of Spain, and have helped put Jamuz back on the wine-producing map.

Tasting Notes

"The 2020 vintage is more restrained and elegant, showing white flowers and hints of nectarine. On the palate, the broadness of Palomino comes in, giving a hint of honeycomb and peach, alongside pastry notes from oak influence. The acidity is very bright and vertical, bringing harmony to the finish." Lenka Sedlackova MW

Producer

Fuentes de Silencio was founded in 2013 on the banks of the Jamuz River, to the south of the province of León. The winery gets its name from the fact that this town had many water reserves and was called ‘the town of fountains.' This passion project is led by oenologist Marta Ramas along with owners Miguel Angel Alonso and his wife Maria Jose Galera. With old pre-phylloxera vines yards, many of which are over 100 years of age they grow the native varieties of Mencía and Alicante Bouschet in very carefully dictated plots. They currently have 24 hectares of vineyards and plantings of Mencía, Alicante Bouschet, Prieto Picudo, Palomino, and Godello. Galician influence here is notable, characterised by the presence of sandy soils and Mencia at high altitudes (800m above sea level) and a continental climate.

Although wine has long been produced in Jamuz, it has done so quietly. This small team is working to bring the essence of the territory back to life and ensure that each of their small plots reaches their highest potential while implementing environmentally-friendly winemaking practices and placing importance on the use of traditional methods. Not only are they the team creating high-quality, exceptional wines of very limited production but they are adding new value to this tiny, relatively unknown region. Jamuz is back on the map.

Production

A blend of Palomino and Doña Blanca, from very old (some pre-phylloxera) vines. Fermentation takes place in a mix of Cocciopesto (a type of amphora) and Austrian oak.  Whole bunches are pressed and vatted to settle in the night-time cold. Fermentation takes place in French oak barrels where it remains for up to 12 months on its lees, with periodic batonnage. 

Specifications 

Vanilla ice cream will never be the same again!

Tasting Notes

Colour

Ebony in colour with iodine highlights.  

Nose

The aromas are reminiscent of figs, raisins and dates.

Palate

Enormously sweet, velvety and soft on the palate, well balanced, with a very long finish.

Producers

During the early years, Bodegas Lustau operated as an ‘Almacenista'. The Lustau family began bottling their own sherries and exporting by 1950. In the 1980s they expanded their range and introduced the Almacenista range concept of buying and maturing casks from small bodegas to share excellent quality names and styles with enthusiasts around the world.

In 1990 the winery was bought by the family-owned Louis Caballero group. Bodegas Lustau is considered a world-class benchmark for top-quality wines. Lustau produces all styles of sherry, from Manzanilla through to Pedro Ximénez, as well as special bottlings, single cask, VOS and VORS sherries. The En Rama range, produced from select barrels from each of the three towns, is a highly anticipated release each spring.

Lustau has, over the years, won multiple medals and trophies, including ‘Best Spanish Winery' and ‘Best Sherry Producer' at the IWSC and the Len Evans Trophy for consistency (won in 2011 and 2016) at the IWC. Current cellar master Sergio Martínez took charge of the winery's oenological team in 2016, after more than 14 years' worth of experience with Lustau. Sergio has been awarded the ‘Best Fortified Winemaker' Trophy by the International Wine Challenge three years in a row, following in the footsteps of the late Manuel Lozano who had won this award seven times. In 2022, Lustau celebrated its 125th birthday with a special release of three sherries in their Anniversary Collection, including a Manzanilla Pasada Papirusa, Amontillado Solera del Castillo, and a Vintage Sherry Añada 1996.

Production

Pedro Ximénez grapes are laid out in the sun after picking until they are practically raisins. After that, the fermentation starts slowly and its halted to maintain all the natural sugars.

The resulting wine ages for 12 years in contact with the air in Jerez de la Frontera. 

Specifications

Tasting Notes

Colour

Light yellow with a hint of lemon. 

Nose

The aroma is elegant and intense. Aromas of white flowers and fruits with a spicy background.

Palate

The palate is crisp, with a creaminess of bread and butter complemented by ripe white flesh. Balanced, full-bodied, with a refreshing acidity on the finish that energises the whole. A joy to carry the aroma of the Rioja landscape.

Winemaking

With grapes from old vineyards in Viura de Rioja Alavesa, this wine recovers the classic way of making Rioja whites, which was to age them in barrels to extend their longevity. A careful process in which this white has been aged for 10 months on the lees in French oak barrels from different cooperages, to have more profiles of aromas and flavour nuances.

Producer

A man of his time, an essential figure in the political and social life of Bilbao at the end of the 19th century, in 1894 Cosme Palacio Bermejillo took over the reins of the family winery that his father founded in Laguardia in 1863 to turn it into the most advanced winery in the Rioja Alavesa. With his characteristic vision of the future and with his sights set on the main wine reference, Bordeaux, he introduced fundamental changes that laid the foundations for modern DO Ca. Rioja wine.

At the end of the 1980s, Cosme Palacio marked a before and after in the history of the wines of this land, creating a style of winemaking at the forefront of its time. Today, Cosme Palacio enjoys great international recognition for being considered the bridge between the Classic Rioja style and the Modern Rioja.

Specifications

Produced from low-yielding Xarel-lo bush vines from one of Catalunya's most interesting indigenous varieties.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Aromas of ripe apple, flint and citrus fruit. 

Palate

The palate is bright and light-bodied, with ripe lemon acidity, stone fruit and a gently textural finish.

Production Method

Grapes are sourced from 35ha of vines cultivated on the Can Macia estate, near the Anoia river basin, near Odena. These low-yielding bush-trained vines are well suited to the production of still wine. The old vine Xarel-lo undergoes temperature controlled fermentation, and is kept on the lees for 4 months to give added texture.

The Estate

At 450m in altitude, the estate is the second-highest winery in the region and at the very limit of Cava production. Some of their vines are over 50 years old.

Mas Macià’s vineyards are now certified organic and the Bohigas family is planning to produce organic still wines initially before focusing upon organic Cava production.

Awards

• Silver at the 2020 Sommelier Wine Awards (2019 Vintage)

Specifications

From a family-run estate in the unique micro-climate of Odena, producing an exceptional Cava with great concentration and finesse.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Generous aromas of wild berries and gentle creamy notes. 

Palate

Full, fruity and concentrated on the palate with persistent bubbles and delicate red fruit on the finish.

Production Method

Made predominantly from the indigenous Trepat red variety on the 35 hectares of vineyard at the Can Macia estate, in the Anoia river basin in Odena. Made using the traditional method with secondary fermentation in bottle. The wine is matured for an extended period of 18 months before disgorgement to enhance the complex, fruity aromas.

The Estate

At 450m in altitude, the estate is the second-highest winery in the region and at the very limit of Cava production. Some of their vines are over 50 years old.

Mas Macià’s vineyards are now certified organic and the Bohigas family is planning to produce organic still wines initially before focusing upon organic Cava production.

Specifications

Elegant and structured Cava Reserva from this family-run estate.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Aromas of fresh apple and pear, with citrus fruit and white flowers. Also lightly spicy notes of cinnamon and biscuit due to ageing. 

Palate

The palate is structured with bright acidity, ripe stone fruit and a creamy mousse - well-balanced to give a rounded, long and gently textural finish.

Production Method

Grapes are sourced from 35ha of vines cultivated on the Can Macià estate, situated in the Anoia river basin, near Odena. They grow in clay-limestone soils and this, together with the Mediterranean-Continental climate and low rainfall, produces low yields with high acidity.

Slow but complete ripening makes this area suitable for the production of high-quality Cava base wines. The grapes are harvested by night, in cool temperatures. Bohigas Cava Brut Reserva is produced by the traditional method, with a second fermentation in bottle, the wine is kept on lees for at least 18 months before release (dosage is 6g/l).

The Estate

At 450m in altitude, the estate is the second-highest winery in the region and at the very limit of Cava production. Some of their vines are over 50 years old.

Mas Macià’s vineyards are now certified organic and the Bohigas family is planning to produce organic still wines initially before focusing upon organic Cava production.

Awards

• Bronze at the IWSC 2023 

Specifications

Specifications

Tasting Notes 

Approachable, unoaked, young Rioja

Nose

On the nose, a young Rioja with lifted red berry fruit and hints of spice.

Palate

Bright red fruit with smooth tannins and a fresh finish

Production

The Tempranillo grapes are harvested in early October from vineyards in Rioja Alta. Vines on average 10-20 years old and the wine is unoaked.

Producer

Spanish wine has always played an important part in the Boutinot portfolio. We represent over 50 wineries that provide wines of great quality, value and interest from all corners of the country. For over 15 years we’ve worked in partnership with a handful of these wineries on ‘own label’ projects, combining their expertise and our passion for Spanish wines to bring our customers honest and eminently drinkable wines which we believe offer good value for money. 

Specifications

Aromatic and sophisticated Godello from the intriguing Monterrei region.

Tasting Notes 

Nose

A crisp, aromatic white with a lifted nose of apricot blossom, citrus fruits and a touch of honey.

Palate

Very fresh acidity and mineral notes balance rich, ripe fruit characters of apple and pear on the palate. The finish has a touch of white spice and good length with a lightly bitter twist. 

Production Method

Monterrei is an area rich in grape-growing and wine-making tradition, combined with a quite unique microclimate. Pazo de Monterrey takes its name from the fortressed palace that dominates the landscape - the oldedest part dating back to the 12th Century. The Godello vines grow on clay / granite soils at around 700m altitude on the slopes of the Verin valley. Grapes are typically hand harvested in late September and gently pressed. After clarification, the juice is transfered to stainless steel tanks for temperature-controlled fermentation.

Producer

The Val de Monterrei is an area of unique microclimates in south-east Galicia. It is the only Galician region that lies in the basin of the river Duero. The river Támega, a well-known tributary of the Duero, cuts through the region from north to south, moulding its slate and granitic landscape.

Pazos del Rey owns 25 hectares of vineyard on the valley’s slopes, and it's from here that Susana Pérez produces stunning wines from the local grapes: Godello, Treixadura and Mencia. She and her team dedicate themselves to teasing out the very best from these complex and exciting grape varieties.

Specifications

Ontañón's Crianza is a benchmark for this style of red - richly fruited, warm oak spice, fresh balancing acidity and smooth tannins.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Ripe aromas of black fruit with warm wood spice.

Palate

Cherry and plum fruit on the palate with fresh acidity and smooth balancing tannins. Classic, approachable and satisfying.