Indulge in two excellent, yet affordable Spanish wines that won’t break the bank.

La Vina Del BuLuLu Grenache 2021

Grown in high altitude granitic soil dominated soils- 1007 meters in the Sierra de Gredos, west of Madrid, in the Castilla Y Leon region. 12 months in Concrete tanks before bottling accentuates the freshness and purity of the fruit.

The name, The Bululú refers to an actor skilled in mimicry who performed in traveling theater troupes in the Golden Age of Spanish theater.

Grenache is the most widely planted grape in the world with the oldest vines owned by Cirillo Estate Wines, in Barossa Valley in Australia. In Europe, it is often considered to be the Pinot Noir of the south.  

This medium-bodied red displays enticing aromas of Raspberries and Strawberries. The palate has on full display, Raspberries, Strawberries, and Cherries, with a hint of black pepper, and blackberries. Silky smooth mouthfeel, great balance, and impressive length on the finish. If this were a relationship, I would say ‘This is a keeper’.

You should see improvements with cellaring over the next 5 years.

Food Pairings should include roasted vegetables, prime rib, rack of lamb, and Beef Bourguignon, as well as an assortment of Tapas.

Tinedo Ja! Tempranillo 2022 – Overdelivers!

The other great Spanish varietal.

The Ja! Tempranillo is produced by a family-owned winery in the La Marcha region with a focus on respecting and maintaining the ecosystem, and yes, the wine is Organic.

Aromas of Cherries, Raspberries, and Red Currents escape from the glass.

The palate is soft, approachable, and inviting, and is great to drink now. I can see this doing well in the backyard cookout or by an open pit fire as the weather warms a little. Layers of Cherries, Raspberries, and Red Current are accompanied by earthy gamey notes with a hint of vanilla and spices. No jagged edges and ripe red fruits make this way too easy to drink- only criticism.  

Pairings should include Tapas as a first option with Beef, Lamb, Game- think Turkey and Thanksgiving, and Chicken being included,  

You should see some improvement over the next 3 – 4 years. Although I would drink this now, there is another vintage around the corner.

Published by thewineguy

I've been in the wine business in both Australia and the US for over 25 years with experience in the retail and wholesale, import, winery management, and hospitality industries and have a passion for all things wine. During my career I've been involved in --Wine Selection and Purchasing --Cellar Stocking --Wine List Curating --Food Pairings --Wine Tastings --Winery Tours In addition I've written a monthly newsletter for 6 years, taught classes and now, a blogger. I'm a firm believer in the simple believe of good friends, good food and good wine! I also believe you don't need an event to open a great bottle of wine, the opening of a great bottle of wine is the event.

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