Wines from Spain and California set the table for fall weather this week. It’s never too late for rosé, and this one from a little-known Spanish grape variety has enough heft for the change in season. Spain also contributes a splurge-worthy white from garnatxa blanca, or grenache blanc, a trendy variety. For warmth and power, we have a jammy red blend from Northern California.
Bovale Rosado 2022
Utiel-Requena, Spain, $16
A rosé on the hearty side, this juicy wine is made from bobal, a relatively widespread Spanish grape variety that is still little-known in this country. Its heft makes it an ideal rosé for fall. Match it with spicy dishes, including anything sprinkled with pimenton at the end. Alcohol by volume: 12 percent. BW: 400 grams (Light).
Imported by Grapes of Spain. Distributed locally by Elite Wines.
Marietta Christo 2019
North Coast, Calif. $26
This Rhône-style blend from Northern California should appeal to lovers of “big” wines. Opulent and rich, with jammy berry flavors, wild herbs and a gentle, satisfying finish that may have you debating, “velvet or satin?” At 14.7 percent, it holds its alcohol well. The blend is syrah, grenache, petite sirah and viognier, grown in Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley and Mendocino County’s McDowell Valley. Marietta is known for high quality and affordable prices — its Old Vine Red is consistently one of California’s best value wines. Christo’s bottle is an unfortunate throwback to the heavy, environmentally unfriendly glass of old. The winemaking is a welcome echo of old-style California. ABV: 14.7 percent. BW: 790 grams (Heavy).
Distributed locally by Republic National.
La Fou Els Amelers Garnatxa Blanca 2020
Terra Alta, Spain, $34
Let’s face it, this wine is a splurge. But it is fantastic, with aromas and flavors of jasmine, sage, peach blossom, kumquat — trust me, your palate is likely to conjure some other savors from this beauty. Grenache blanc is experiencing a boomlet of popularity in California and elsewhere. This wine could be a benchmark for the variety. ABV: 13.5 percent. BW: 640 grams (Average).
Imported by Vinos Libres. Distributed locally by DMV Distributing.
Prices are approximate. For availability, check Wine.com, Wine-searcher.com and the websites and social media feeds of the wineries, importers, distributors, and your favorite local wine store. You can also ask your local retailer to order wines from the distributors listed. Have wine questions for Dave McIntyre? Send them to [email protected].
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