A Journey Through Spain’s Hidden Wine Treasures
When it comes to discovering new wines, sometimes the best finds are those that lie just beyond the well-trodden path. While many are familiar with the iconic Rioja region, there are countless other areas in Spain that produce exceptional red wines, often overlooked but brimming with character and value.
This week, we’re inviting you on a journey through some of these lesser-known regions, showcasing a special mixed dozen of Spanish reds that offer a rich and diverse tasting experience. From the sun-drenched hills of Jumilla to the rugged landscapes of Campo de Borja, each bottle tells a story of tradition, terroir, and time-honoured winemaking.
Exploring Beyond Rioja
While Rioja is undeniably one of Spain’s most famous wine regions, it’s not the only place where world-class reds are made. This week’s selection highlights several regions that deserve more attention, starting with Jumilla on Spain’s east coast. Known for its dry, mountainous terrain, Jumilla is ideal for growing monastrell grapes—also known as mourvèdre in France.
The 2024 Camino de Seda is a prime example of what this region can offer. Produced by the family-owned Bodega Olivares, this wine showcases the depth and concentration that come from old vines thriving in sandy soils. The result is a big, fruity red that delivers outstanding value at just $16.99 per bottle—a discount of over 37% compared to its recommended retail price.
Sarah Everden, our buyer, notes: “The monastrell really adapted to the area, and we get this really great concentration of flavor from the age of the vines.” This wine is the first in a curated mix of Spanish reds, offering a unique opportunity to explore the breadth of the country’s viticultural heritage.
A Taste of Tradition
Another standout in the case is the 2020 Ermita de San Lorenzo Gran Seleccion, hailing from the small but mighty region of Campo de Borja in northern Spain. Known as the “Empire of Garnacha,” this area is renowned for its high-quality grenache (garnacha) wines. The Ermita de San Lorenzo has earned an impressive 21 gold medals over its last seven vintages, including five double golds.
This wine was aged in caves at the foot of the Moncayo mountains, a traditional method that contributes to its complexity and depth. Winemaker Pamela Geddes, who has worked closely with our club for years, explains: “It’s a big call, but I’m tempted to ask: Is there anybody that can age wines in such a fantastic way better than Spain?”
Long-Term Relationships and Quality
The value of long-term relationships between winemakers and buyers cannot be overstated. The 2019 La Cantera Reserva Carinena is a testament to this, resulting from decades of collaboration with Bodegas San Valero, a co-operative winemaker in the region next to Rioja.
Sarah Everden adds: “That long-term view is always really helpful for consistency and quality.” This reserve wine is a blend of tempranillo and garnacha, capturing the essence of Carinena while maintaining a balance of fruit and structure.
Finally, we couldn’t resist including a touch of Rioja for context. The Vina Bujanda Tinto Joven Rioja 2024 is a youthful yet refined expression of the region, featuring ripe red fruits, vanilla, and a smooth finish. It’s a great representation of the heartland of Rioja.
What’s in the Case?
Here’s a closer look at the wines included in the Spanish Value Dozen:
- Camino de Seda 2024
- Aromas of dark fruits, earthiness, and vanilla
- Palate features juicy dark berries, vanilla, and liquorice
- 14% alc, RRP $24 a bottle
SPECIALS: $18.99 a bottle in any mixed dozen; $16.99 a bottle in Spanish dozen
Ermita de San Lorenzo Gran Seleccion 2020
- Notes of tobacco, spice, dark plum, and herbaceous elements
- Complex palate with plum, black cherry, and vanilla
- 14% alc, RRP $28 a bottle
SPECIALS: $21.99 a bottle in any mixed dozen; $16.99 a bottle in Spanish dozen
La Cantera Reserva Carinena 2019
- Dark garnet color with hints of seasoned oak and coriander seeds
- Fresh red fruits and a velvet texture on the palate
- 13.5% alc, RRP $28 a bottle
SPECIALS: $19.99 a bottle in any mixed dozen; $16.99 a bottle in Spanish dozen
Vina Bujanda Tinto Joven Rioja 2024
- Ripe red fruit, vanilla, and hints of tobacco on the nose
- Intense red fruit on the palate with balanced tannins
- 12.5% alc, RRP $28 a bottle
- SPECIALS: $18.99 a bottle in any mixed dozen; $16.99 a bottle in Spanish dozen
Special Offer
For a limited time, you can enjoy three bottles of each wine in the Spanish Value Dozen for just $16.99. That’s a saving of $120!
Order online or call 1300 765 359 between 9am and 5pm AEST, Monday to Friday. Use the code ‘ACCJ’ when placing your order. Offers are available while stocks last. The Australian Wine Club is a commercial partnership with Laithwaites Wine, LIQP770016550.
