Match 5 has Portugal taking on Spain in our only match-up of the round of 16. Both Portugal and Spain make amazing and varied Tempranillo-based wines that can range from cellar worthy to Tuesday night sippers. The styles may be different, but the passion displayed in the winemaking and on the pitch is equally strong. Both wines are under $25 and both are new to us at Icon Wines.
Region: Douro DOC
Cost: $12.99
Alcohol: 13%
Notes: Dry, high-minus acidity with moderate tannins. Youthful aromas of red berries and vanilla, spice and stewed fruit. A savoury palate of tobacco, spice and red fruit. Nice long finish. (Available at Signature BCLDB stores across BC)
Region: Rioja DOC
Cost: $24.99
Alcohol: 13.5%
Notes: Touch of residual sugar on the palate. High-minus acidity, moderate tannins with flavours of dark berries and oak with earthy notes. Well balanced with a lovely, intense nose of candied fruit. (Available at Signature BCLDB stores across BC)
The Conclusion:
Complexity (Nose): Bodegas Beronia
Complexity (Palate): Porca de Murca
Food Friendly: Porca de Murca
Concentration: Bodegas Beronia
Expression of Terroir: Bodegas Beronia
Value: Porca de Murca
Winner: Bodegas Beronia
The Beronia Reserva which cost nearly twice as much as the affordable Porca de Murca just barely squeaks out the victory. Despite the impressive value of the Tinto, we had to go with the concentration and complexity offered by the oak-aged Rioja. Spain wins on the pitch today and in our Tempranillo showdown.
- Liam Carrier
Next Match: Germany VS. Argentina in the Round of 8.
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