Thursday, March 3rd from 4:30 to 7:00 PM/ Saturday, March 5th from 1:00 to 4:00 PM
In rural Galicia in northwestern Spain, the Bodega of Pazos del Rey lies near the river Duero and its tributary the Tamega which bisects the region from north to south, exposing sloping cliffs of granite and slate from which the traditional grape of godello pulls its sustenance. This modern winery occupies the very heart of the historical wine-producing area of Val de Monterrei where vines have been cultivated since the Roman era. Godello is one of the ancient grape varietals that was saved from extinction by the concerted efforts of winemakers such as Pazos del Rey, and Spanish wine lovers appreciate its aromatic and flavorful qualities, unusual notes of spice, quince, pear, a touch of cream and white flowers, combined with a delightfully drinkable medium body. This wine marries well with delicate seafood or a variety of tapas.
2009 Broadbent Vinho Verde $8.99
Like a bit of warm Atlantic breeze from Portugal, Broadbent's selection of green wine has arrived just in advance of springtime. The vivid flower label reminds us that crocuses are waiting and ready to signal the end of winter. Classic vinho verde, this is cool, fresh, clear and bright, with tart apple, petrol and clementine notes, finishing with a tiny bit of tangy spritz that excites the tongue. Yum! A lovely aperitif on its own or a foil for salty, spicy foods such as white clam pizza, spicy seafood, or southeast Asian cuisine. A fresh and simple wine for drinking pleasure now and even better yet when the temperature gets warmer (tip: case buyers will be duly rewarded come Connecticut summer).
2008 Quinta do Crasto Flor de Crasto Douro $8.99
It is a pity that quality Portuguese wines often fly below the radar for many wine drinkers. Many miss the experience of diversity and favorable quality/price ratio found in modern Portugal. Often the wines deliver more wine drinking pleasure than the price tag. A new bottling from the famed Quinto do Crasto just flashed on our store radar with a very bright blip! Flor de Crasto, is a young-vine cuvee, an unoaked blend of the classic trinity of indigenous Douro grapes, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional. This little flower shows a bright, leafy bouquet with forward sun-ripened fruit, good structure and a pleasingly tangy finish. Somewhat akin to a very light-bodied California zinfandel at a purse-friendly price, this wine belongs on your radar. Don't miss it!
2006 Bodegas Vinas del Cenit Venta Mazzaron Tempranillo Vino de la Tierra de Zamora $12.99
Located on the high plateau of central Spain, Vinas del Cenit has vineyards ranging over a multitude of parcels planted with old tempranillo vines, some of which are ungrafted and can claim more than a century in the earth. The region's history is rich not only in wine but also in silver, as the Roman legions moved along its main thoroughfare, the 2000 year-old Via de la Plata, a route which served to move troops and merchandise such as these wines around the Roman Empire. Aged in oak for nine months, the deeply crimson succulence of this 100% tempranillo beauty thrills with complex aromas of licorice, espresso, blackberry, leather, dark spices, plum, and black cherry. This is a rich wine from a torrid climate, a more opulent contrast to last month's Rioja. Chorizo sausage, hard cheeses, Spanish torta of potatoes, and all manner of saffron-rich paella would form a perfect complement. Parker's Wine Advocate, 90 points.
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