We truly believe our wines are fantastic, but you already knew that – we wouldn’t sell them if we didn’t! That said, it is always nice when someone else comes along and recognises the quality in our portfolio, even better when they write a lovely review in the press to tell everyone about it… Here’s a round-up of what they’ve been saying about us this last month!

This month’s Spanish extravaganza starts with another ringing endorsement for Bodegas Borsao!…

Borsao Garnacha Tinto 2018: “Year in, year out, one of the best-value reds around – a classic, no-fuss, fruit-forward Garnacha with tumble out-the-glass, vivid brambly fruit, a touch of dried plum and paprika and smooth, supple tannins.” David Williams, Decanter, 29th January 2020

Plus several reviews for wines from Bodegas Ontañón:

Ontañón Rioja Gran Reserva 2010: “Aromatic, with sandalwood, tobacco and cedar notes, this polished red delivers cherry, forest floor, vanilla and dried orange flavours. Light tannins and juicy acidity keep this focused. Harmonious. Tempranillo and Graciano. 91 points.” Thomas Matthews, Wine Spectator, 10th January 2020

Ontañón Rioja Reserva 2011*: “Beguiling, sweet dark forest fruit combines with elegant savoury notes; fine and focused with a powerful, driving finish. 91 points / Highly Recommended. Decanter March ’20 issue *not yet in UK stock 

Vetiver Rioja Blanco 2017: “Vetiver can be a little anonymous, but not here. A combination of old-vine fruit and four months in American oak have coaxed out wonderfully complex yet idiosyncratic flavours of beeswax, quince, honeycomb and a whole lot more. Terrific value. 90 points.” Simon Field MW, Decanter March ’20 issue.

Pasion de Bobal Tinto 2017: “Deep black cherry colour with nice red berry and black fruit aromas, such as strawberries, raspberries and blackcurrants underpinned by creamy, slightly toasty oak with touches of spice and liquorice. Fruit-forward, with rounded tannins, good acidity and hints of vanilla, smoke and toast. Drink 2020-2025. 93 points.” Decanter, 10th January 2020

Dominio de Atauta 2016: “The eponymous red 2016 Dominio de Atauta, the first vintage of winemaker Jaime Suarez, was truly impressive, bringing to mind the first vintages of the winery that broke the stereotype of concentrated and oaked Ribera del Duero in search of more freshness and showcasing the amazing but then unknown vineyards of the village of Atauta in the cooler part of the appellation in the province of Soria. It’s a step up from the Parada de Atauta, with more depth and power, perhaps a little more ripeness too, and a tender and balanced mouthfeel with very integrated acidity. 92+ points.” Luis Gutierrez, The Wine Advocate issue 246/ RobertParker.com

Parada de Atauta 2016: “This Parada is quite impressive, with moderate ripeness, extraction and oak coming through as balanced and approachable, with good freshness but not lacking power. 91+ points.” Luis Gutierrez, The Wine Advocate issue 246/ RobertParker.com

And finally, for an article on JancisRobinson.com, Sarah Jane Evans MW selected one of the Fernando de Castilla sherries as one of her 5 favourite wines:

Fernando de Castilla Antique Palo Cortado: “This is so marked by age and wood that it almost seems like an old brandy, but is extremely sharp and deep. It has toast and caramel to a maximum aromatic concentration and depth. A saline profile with a touch of seaweed. Classy! Great! It is all elegance without being pungent. Great expressiveness and integration of alcohol. A finish with roasted nut, orange peel and candied-fruit flavours. 18/20.” (3rd Feb 2020)