C314-YT: SPAIN & GERMANY

Markus Molitor

FIND AN EVEN BIGGER CANADIAN SELECTION ONLINE! WWW.OPIMIAN.CA

Viognier

Chardonnay

Cabernet Franc

Pinot Noir

SEE THE FULL TASTING NOTES AT OPIMIAN.CA

4220

CLOUDSLEY CELLARS HOMESTEAD VINEYARD PINOT NOIR, VQA TWENTY MILE BENCH, 2019

3678

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS COUP DE CŒUR, VQA LINCOLN LAKESHORE, 2021

4664

PEARL MORISSETTE FURIE RED BLEND, LINCOLN LAKESHORE VQA, 2020

4556

MELDVILLE VIOGNIER, VQA LINCOLN LAKESHORE, 2022

1079

HARRIS BEACH RYE 51 CANADIAN WHISKY

Whisky

Riesling

$ 360

Lightfoot & Wolfville are among a select group of Nova Scotia vintners demonstrating the fantastic potential of their province’s wines. This 2022 vintage Riesling from the Terroir Series is a great example. Racy and sleek, this light-bodied, dry white wine offers hugely vibrant green fruit flavours underscored by herbal and mineral notes. 2024-2029– jb

A classic Champenoise blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Meunier crafted in the traditional method. Initially restrained, this elegant sparkling wine offers delicate floral, spiced, and biscuit-y notes typical of long lees-aged bubblies. Piercing acidity and lively mousse are nicely balanced by a subtly creamy, layered midpalate. Very precise and lifted. 2024-2029– jb

11%

Kékfrankos (Blaufrankisch)

A little-known grape in North America, Kékfrankos is widely planted in Hungary and in Austria (under the name Blaufränkisch). It is prized for its bright berry fruit and tangy acidity. Lightfoot & Wolfville have produced an interesting rosé here, with bracingly high acidity, juicy red fruit flavours, and (pleasingly) low 10% alcohol. 2024-2026– jb

10%

Tart red fruits, herbal notes

Lime, green apple, spring flowers, wet stone

Green citrus and orchard fruits, floral, herbal [15.00]

Pan-seared red snapper with a mango-red and orange pepper salsa and a squeeze of lime

Chamomile, anise, apple, ginger biscuit

Apple, lemon, elderflower, brioche

Smoked salmon canapés with crème fraîche and dill garnish

Plum, strawberries & cream, earthy hints

Chocolate-covered strawberries

4863

LIGHTFOOT & WOLFVILLE TERROIR SERIES RIESLING, WOLFVILLE, 2022

4864

LIGHTFOOT & WOLFVILLE SMALL LOT TRIO BRUT, WOLFVILLE & AVONPORT, 2017

Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir

4865

LIGHTFOOT & WOLFVILLE SMALL LOT KÉKFRANKOS ROSÉ, AVONPORT, 2021

$ 60

$ 94 $ 564

$ 60 $ 360

EDITORIAL

A Toast to New Horizons

By Michael Lutzmann and Greg Rinehart, Opimian Managing Directors

CANADIAN

SPAIN P10

Bodega Concavins P10

Bodegas de Alto/Giles Cooke MW P14

Loess P16

Bodegas Marqués de Reinosa P17

Bodegas Aradón P18

La Conreria d'Scala Dei P20

EVERYDAY WINES P22

Mauricio Lorca P24

Bodegas Gutiérrez Colosia P28

Gómez de

P32

Spanish Palate P35

GERMANY P36

Markus Molitor P37

COLLECTOR’S

It may surprise you that when we compare the volume of Member wine orders by country, Spain is right up there in the top 5. While rightly known for its saturated and mouth-watering reds, we are presenting you with a well-rounded Cellar of wine styles for every palate.

You may also notice Austria by its absence. We have moved those wines to Cellar 315, to align with Bordeaux, Bergerac, and Beaujolais. Instead, treat yourself to some of the best wines coming out of Germany. Markus Molitor, featured on the cover and in the Masterpiece on page 6, has said "We give every wine the time it needs to become perfect". Need we say more?

We created 'Canadian Corner' in 2023 in response to Member requests. As Canada's largest wine club, it only makes sense to offer Canadian wines. While not as easy as it may sound, we continue to do so and you are ordering more and more of it. Take advantage of the 2019 Cloudsley Pinot Noir on page 2. For Pinot Noir lovers - you know who you are - this is a wonderful example of how the Niagara micro-climate can produce an excellent expression of this finicky variety.

Perennial bestsellers from Montblanc are back, along with a mixed case of their fabulous Cava. New last year, and returning due to demand, are wines from Giles Cook, MW - Bodegas deAlto. We've seen a trend of world-class winemakers like Giles and Mauricio Lorca (Viñas de Belesar) expanding their reach through Spain. We're told it's the superior terroir and climate that makes Spain a compelling place to grow grapes and make wine.

In the day-to-day running of Opimian, we never lose sight of the cornerstones of your Club. We connect you to unique wines, wine-related services, wine experiences, and wine education. In this issue, and in the coming year, we are adding to these important aspects. On page 8, in our 'Up to the Minute' newsletter, make sure to see details of our new partnership with the Independent Wine Education Guild (IWEG). You now have discounted access to dozens of professionally taught courses for every level of ability and interest.

Cheers, Michael & Greg

DIRECTOR'S

GREG

MARKUS MOLITOR

PINOT NOIR MIXED

CASE - LOT 4862, P43

MICHAEL

FINCA RATÓN RESERVA

TEMPRANILLO, DOCA. RIOJA, GÓMEZ DE SEGURALOT 4913, P33

Toronto-based Igor Ryjenkov MW was the first in Canada to earn the prestigious Master of Wine credential in 2003. His wine business expertise has been informed by 24 year in the Ontario trade, first in retail, then in key buying positions, and lastly, in projects, most notably, developing the new 5-dot wine style matrix. Igor is one of Opimian’s Masters of Wines.

Ordering Made Easy

1. SELECT YOUR WINES

Let yourself be inspired by Opimian’s Masters of Wine. Our custom chart features a list of symbols to help guide your selection. Still unsure which wines to order? Contact us!

2. PLACE YOUR ORDER

There are three ways to order. The last day to order for each Cellar Offering can be found listed on the cover. No orders will be processed after this time.

3. LET US HANDLE THE REST

The wines featured on this Cellar Offering are still at the producers’ wineries when you order them, so it is normal that the process takes a bit of time and effort on our side.

Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, distance from port of entry to liquor board and processing time required by each liquor board.

Once the wine arrives at your local liquor store or distribution centre, you will receive a Pick-up Notice with the specified date (the Release Date) and your pick-up location.

Jacky Blisson MW is an independent wine educator, writer, and consultant with over two decades of experience in all facets of the global wine trade. She is the first Master of Wine in Québec and one of only ten across Canada.

MASTER PIECE

Markus Molitor, "Mr. 300 Points"

By Michael Palij MW

Markus Molitor is not a man who likes to steal the limelight, despite his rather Herculean achievements. My first visit to his estate – in late autumn 2014 – was conducted entirely by his Export Director, Daniel Kiowski, including the meeting, greeting, tour, and tasting. I didn’t meet Markus himself until four or five years later when he, in characteristically understated fashion, cooked (and served) a meal himself, accompanied by the wines from everyone’s birth year.

Every visit, somewhat predictably, scores 11 out of 10, from the vertiginous Ürziger Würzgarten vineyard glowing terracotta red in the spring sun to the 19th-century winery meticulously restored and awarded a major architectural prize.

Imagine for a moment, the state of play in 1984, when German wine laws had cheapened the image of the best Grosse Lagen, and when export markets wanted nothing to do with Mosel Riesling. Markus, at only 20 years of age, inherited his father’s modest estate and moved quickly to acquire the best vineyard plots in the Middle Mosel.

Self-taught, Markus wrings a unique purity from his vineyards by working largely without botrytized grapes and thus pioneering ‘dry’ Mosel. Markus isn’t afraid of modernity, it’s mediocrity he eschews: in his cuverie, old oak stückfass rubs shoulders with gleaming steel. 65 pickers work full-time for the estate – such is the rigour of his selection. There is no fining: clarification and stabilization must

MICHAEL PALIJ is one of Opimian's Masters of Wine.

Markus Molitor

happen naturally. Then there is his classification system, which allows for around 80 different wines per harvest. Only a fool – or a visionary – would attempt such a model.

Nobody does Riesling quite like Markus. Post-visit, we sit in his sleek, classically styled tasting room, and marvel incredulously at the longevity of both his dry and lusciously sweet wines. They are unfathomably wellbalanced. We race back through the decades, Daniel smiling somewhat patronizingly at my earnest attempts to identify vineyard and vintage blind. I am often 20 years out (inevitably they are older than I imagine). Gently chided, I marvel at wines that can burst with such vitality and razor-sharp, fully ripe, painfully concentrated fruit.

Somewhat controversially, Molitor is not a member of the Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter (VDP), Germany’s exclusive producers’ club: he was denied entry in 2016 by secret ballot[1]. Whether he needs the validation is academic, as he has chosen not to pursue it. Markus now has his own classification system within QmP: white caps for dry wine; green for medium; golden for sweet. There is, additionally, an ascending star rating of up to 3 stars for the cru wines. All of which affords Markus a certain cult status for innovation, which might fall flat were his output not so decidedly brilliant.

It is not so much that Markus Molitor scooped three 100-point scores for his Auslesen in 2015 that commands respect. It is more a question of consistency. No winery submits more wines to Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate. His top 10 submissions of 2022 outperformed RomanéeConti. This is Riesling, too, and not some steroidal red all à la mode in New York, so this estate’s medal cabinet deserves a special mention.

Notwithstanding the accolades, the wines remain steadfastly obtainable. Apart from the Auction Wines and the high ground occupied by the rare TBAs, there are superb options both for the investor and the amateur. Riesling, of course, ages for eons, so the wine has decades of investment potential to fulfill. And, he is far from sitting on his laurels. His recent purchase and renovation of the abandoned Saar Valley icon, Domäne Serrig, was just released through La Place de Bordeaux – making it the first German winery to release its entire production through the famed French distribution system. His first vintage from Domäne Serrig, the Vogelsang Grosse Lage 2020 scored – you guessed it – 100 points.

Wherever it is from which Markus draws inspiration, it is evident that he has a very astute reading of the market. He has made a real success by out-foxing current trends, but he is not blinded by it. As we leave, Markus is outside on a forklift. One gets the impression that he is simply keen to keep on doing what he does best.

[1]https://www.larscarlberg.com/a-controversy-over-new-membership-in-the-vdp-mosel/

COUPS DE COEUR

THIS CELLAR'S HIGHEST SCORING WINES BY OUR MASTERS OF WINE

EVERYDAY DRINKING

BOTAS DE BARRO, TEMPRANILLO, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO 2022, LOT 4891, P35

CELLARING POTENTIAL

DE ALTO AMO CRIANZA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2019, LOT 4875, P15

CAMINO EMPEDRADO DE MAURICIO LORCA TINTO, RIBEIRA SACRA, 2021, LOT 4904, P26

MARKUS MOLITOR

ZELTINGER

SONNENUHR

SPÄTLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL (WHITE CAP), 2020, LOT 4850, P37

UP TO THE MINUTE

OPIMIAN TRAVEL

EXCLUSIVE TO OPIMIAN MEMBERS AND THEIR GUESTS

June, 2024

Niagara, Canada

Spend a luxurious long weekend in Canada's foremost wine region. The best of accommodation, dining and transportation.

September, 2024

California, USA

Experience the lush harvest season in world-famous Sonoma and Napa Valleys. Tour and learn. Sip and savour.

All of these trips will be offered to the entire Membership by email in advance of the registration period. If you would like to be added to the specific TRAVEL email list, please send an email to aphilippe@opimian.ca with 'Travel List' in the subject line.

OPIMIAN EVENTS

PRODUCER TASTINGS COMING TO A CITY NEAR YOU IN 2024!

Producer Tastings will be rolling out across the country in 2024, with the first stops in Toronto and Montreal. These events are a chance to taste last year’s vintage of a range of wines in the current cellar. Each tasting will focus on several producers and may include special guests! Keep an eye on your emails and check the Cellars for more information.

Save the date for a Riedel Winetasting featuring Maximilian Riedel

June 14, 2024 Toronto, Canada

IWEG'S PARTNERSHIP OFFER

To help you achieve your 2024 goals, IWEG is offering a special rate for Opimian members for 2024 Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and Wine Scholar Guild (WSG) courses!

Use the code opimian24 at checkout on IWEG's website www.iweg.org to receive 10 per cent off eligible courses! This special offer is effective January 1st 2024 and will run until June 30th 2024. The promotion is not retroactive to existing registrations prior to this date. WSET Level 4 Diploma in-class and online courses are not included in this offer.

PLEASE KEEP YOUR CREDIT CARD INFORMATION UP-TO-DATE

One of the biggest disappointments we hear from Members and especially wine program subscribers is when their orders do not go through due to an expired credit card. Please keep yours up-todate. You can update the information in your dashboard. It's stored in a safe, encrypted database so you have no worries there. If you have any trouble doing so, please contact Member Service.

Information available on our blog at WWW.OPIMIAN.CA/BLOG

CONTACTS:

IWEG WEBSITE: www.iweg.org

IWEG contact person (Program Administrator): Anne Theunissen atheunissen@iweg.org

IWEG telephone number: 416-534-2570

For further information please contact atheunissen@iweg.org

CELLAR UP!

WINES TO SHAPE YOUR CELLAR

Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning your wine journey, we created Cellar Up! to provide you with selections from the Cellar that are diverse and represent a region or variety perfectly.

This gives you a head start as you begin to make your ordering decisions. While every wine in every Cellar gets the seal of approval from our Masters of Wine, these wines will narrow it down for you when you consider pride of place and terroir.

SPARKLING

Pairs with every celebrationeven if it's just celebrating life.

PROYECTO CU4TRO MIXED CAVA CASE, LOT 4872, P13

Two Cava's are better than oneespecially when they are these two! Both dry but each has it's own, unique flavour profile that will quench your thirst for bubbles.

LIGHT-BODIED WHITE

Pairs well certainly with seafood but don't be afraid to sip it on its own.

GÓMEZ DE SEGURA BLANCO, MALVASÍA Y VIURA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2023, LOT 4910, P32

Make sure to chill this one down and then you can't go wrong. We think they made this wine with a hot day in the backyard in mind.

MEDIUM-BODIED WHITE

Pairs with shellfish, rich, oily fish, even light meats if you like.

MARKUS MOLITOR ZELTINGER SONNENUHR SPÄTLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL, (WHITE CAP) 2020, LOT 4850, P37

Everyone needs some of 'Mr. 300 Points' wine in their Cellar. If Riesling is the most revered grape variety by sommeliers, Markus Molitor is the most revered maker of it.

MEDIUM-BODIED RED

Pairs with so many things. Very versatile. From pizza and pasta, to veal and pork. Even heavier meats can work. Some have been known to sip it on its own.

ABRIENDO CAMINOS RED BLEND, PRODUCTO DE GALICIA, MAURICIO LORCA, NV, LOT 4901, P25

Unoaked and delicious. This everyday blend brings out the best of the Garnacha, Mencia and Tempranillo. So well balanced and fresh, you'll be reaching for a bottle regularly.

FULL-BODIED RED

Pairs with beef, game, stews, and anything with a powerful sauce.

DE ALTO AMO COLECCION PRIVADA RESERVA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2018, LOT 4876, P15

Already cellared for you for several years, Giles Cooke MW's creation is ready to drink and is surprisingly youthful. It can also rest in your collection for another 5 years if you like.

SPAIN

When one thinks of Spain, iconic images come to mind. Barcelona and Madrid. Conquistadors and the Inquisition. Flamenco and Corrida. Rioja and Tapas. These associations are not wrong, of course, but they do not paint a full picture. Rather, they are a snapshot of what Spain has to offer, leaving a lot of blank space to fill with colour. Similarly, while Spain has the most land under vine in the world, 80 per cent of it is planted with just 20 top grapes—with Rioja and Tempranillo dominating consumer awareness— yet there are over 600 grapes planted in over 90 DOPs in 12 main (and at times quite divergent) wine regions. These pages, while paying their dues to those giants of Spanish wine, also provide a glimpse of what else the country has to offer.

Bodega Concavins

Clos Montblanc, located in Barberà de la Conca, is a project launched in 1988 by Carbonell Figueras, a family with 300 years of viticultural expertise. The winery neighbours the two prominent sites of Catalonia : the fortress city of Montblanc and a monastery of Poblet. With 80 hectaries planted with 15 grapes, many of them native to the region, the team here aims to express the culture and history of this corner of Spain, and of Catalonia, in their wines.

4866

MONTBLANC 362 BRUT RESERVA, CAVA MÈTODE TRADICIONAL, D.O. CAVA N/V

Macabeu, Xarel·lo, Parellada

$ 37 $ 222

50/30/20 Macabeo, Xarel·lo and Parellada. The wine spends 1½-2 years in the bottle post-disgorgement. With a somewhat medium-yellow appearance, it opens with a medium-intensity, somewhat rich set with aromas of lemon oil, pecans, yellow fruit/ plum, lemon sorbet and a floral lift in the background. The dry palate continues with a medium acidity, a lazy yet plentiful mousse, a light to medium extract, a soft texture and a medium-minus body. It displays nice length and persistence with yellow plum, citrus, toast and nut flavours, closing with a medium finish. 2024-2026 – ir

12%

Rich, lemon oil, pecans, yellow fruit/plum, lemon sorbet, a floral lift

Yellow plum, citrus, toast and nuts

Patatas bravas with lemon-garlic aïoli

Bodegas Concavins is based in Barberà de la Conca in northern Catalonia, close to the fortified town of Montblanc.

Macabeu, Chardonnay

$ 25 $ 300

From 22-year-old vines, the Chardonnay portion comes from the highest vineyards of Conca de Barberà. A medium yellow in appearance, it displays medium-intensity aromas of maple/birch sap, starfruit and hard candy/lemon drop. It has a medium acidity, is dry with a medium extract, a soft-to-medium texture and a medium body with mostly overtones of birch sap, lemon, lees and lemon drop, and a medium finish. 2024-2026 – ir

12.5%

Macabeu, Parellada, Sauvignon Blanc

$ 41 $ 246

From 26-year-old vines, 10% Sauvignon. With a light-yellow appearance, it is still very young, showing fermentative aromas followed by a medium-intensity notes of thistle, lemon and oatmeal; it’s a little sharp on the nose now. On the palate, it is dry and offers a medium acidity, a medium extract, a soft texture and a medium body, with matching length and intensity with flavours of citrus, oatmeal, aloe, lees and thistle, closing with a medium finish. 2024-2026 – ir

12%

Maple/birch sap, starfruit, hard candy/ lemon drop

Birch sap, lemon, lees and lemon drop [2.1]

White asparagus with Hollandaise

Thistle, lemon, oatmeal

Citrus, oatmeal, aloe, lees and thistle [3.00]

Sea bass a la plancha with sherry and saffron sauce

4867

MONTBLANC 362 MACABEU/ CHARDONNAY, D.O. CATALUNYA, 2023

4868

MONTBLANC 362 MACABEU/ PARELLADA/SAUVIGNON BLANC, D.O. CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2023

— Luis Carbonell-Figueras, owner and one of Spain's leading businessmen.

$ 27

$ 324

A deep purple ruby, opaque robe. On the nose, it has mediumplus intensity aromas of sugared plum, cassis reduction, lard/black olive tapenade and mint. The palate is dry with a touch of spritz and medium-sized: extract, mediumtextured tannins and body, with lovely length and persistent flavours of jam and candy, plum, prune and black olive. The furry tannins carry through the medium finish. 2024-2026 – ir

14%

Sugared plum, cassis reduction, lard/black olive tapenade and mint

Jam, candy, plum, prune and black olive

Vegetarian lasagna with smoked Mozzarella

$ 29 $ 348

This wine aims to recreate that made by Catalonian Cistercian monks in the 14th century, a blend of 40% Merlot, 30% Grenache, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Carignan. It displays an opaque deeppurple ruby appearance and medium-plus intensity aromas of cedar, ripe bell pepper, char, toffee, prune and roasted tomato. It is dry on the palate and shows a medium-minus acidity, a medium extract, medium fine-textured tannins and a medium body. It has a lasting presence and fruit with cold char, brick, roasted bell pepper, tomato, cedar flavours and closes with a medium, warm finish. 2024-2026 –ir

15%

$ 37 $ 222

While Syrah gets the top billing, it is actually 77% Samsó (a.k.a Carignan). Aged for 12-16 months in oak, some new. Deep ruby, opaque in the glass. It leads with mediumintensity elements of candied sugared plum, char, vanilla/custard, and lardy/olive richness on the nose. Shy-of-medium acidity, the palate is dry with a medium-plus extract, medium finetextured tannins and a medium-plus body, nice length and fruit with prune, char, black olive and creamy/coating presence and a medium-plus warm finish. 2024-2026 – ir

Prune, char, black olive, creamy

15%

Beef stew with pimentón and piquillo peppers

Cedar, ripe bell pepper, char, toffee, prune and roasted tomato

Cold char, brick, roasted bell pepper, tomato and cedar

Jamón and Manchego croquetas

Candied/sugared plum, char, vanilla/ custard, lard/black olive

4869

MONTBLANC 362 TEMPRANILLO/ CABERNET SAUVIGNON, D.O. CATALUNYA, 2023

Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon

4870

MONTBLANC 362 SELECCIÓ, D.O. CATALUNYA, 2021

Merlot, Grenache, Cab. Sauvignon, Carignan

4871

MONTBLANC 362 SYRAH/SAMSÓ, D.O. CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2021

Syrah, Samsó

photo — Top right - taking samples of wine from barrels. Bottom left - The Clos Montblanc cellar.

CELLAR 314

BUBBLES TO CELEBRATE ANY NIGHT OF THE WEEK 4872

PROYECTO CU4TRO CAVA CASE3 BOTTLES EACH: BRUT AND ROSÉ BRUT

This case includes a brut and a rosé and takes away the pressure of deciding which one to get. On the other hand, the burden of deciding which one to open first is still there, but at least that’s an easier one to manage with both bottles on hand. (It’s not wrong to open both of them, by the way, if the party is big enough. Just sayin’…)

PROYECTO CU4TRO CAVA BRUT, D.O. CAVA N/V

Macabeu, Xarel·lo, Parellada, Chardonnay

Three traditional grapes plus 5% Chardonnay. A light yellow hue here, and the nose leads with a range of mediumintensity aromas: floral/ nasturtium, nuts, lemon peel, yellow apple and plum, hint of burnt sugar and dried fruit. The palate is dry, has a medium acidity, a lazy grippy mousse, a light extract, a soft texture, a light body with medium-plus length and intensity of yellow plum, fresh and dried yellow apple and lemon peel towards a medium finish. It is delicate but long, and quite well made.

2024-2026– ir

PROYECTO CU4TRO ROSÉ CAVA BRUT, D.O. CAVA N/V

Trepat, Pinot Noir, Garnacha, Monastrell

11.5%

Nasturtium, nuts, lemon peel, yellow apple and plum, burnt sugar, dried fruit

Yellow plum, fresh and dried yellow apple, lemon peel

Croquetas de pollo

80% Trepat, 15% Pinot Noir, a little Grenache and Monastrell with up to two years on the lees. A light rosé hue in the glass. The nose offers a mediumplus intensity, elements of red plum compote, red apple, a hint of powdered fruit drink, oatmeal, toast and citrus oil. It is dry on the palate with a mediumplus acidity, a lazy fine mousse, a medium extract, a soft texture, a medium body, and lovely length and fruit intensity with red plum/red apple compote, toast, oil and citrus notes, and a medium finish.

2024-2026– ir

11.5%

Red plum compote, red apple, powdered fruit drink, oatmeal, toast and oil

Red plum/red apple compote, toast, oil and citrus

A charcuterie plate with Ibérico pâté and torta del Casar

Bodegas de Alto/ Giles Cooke MW

Bodegas de Alto y Mas is a Rioja outpost of the umbrella business Alliance Wines, and bills itself as a more contemporary interpreter of the stories of

the prized old-vine Tempranillo and Grenache plots they have been able to find, dialling down the barrel’s or winemaker’s imprint. De Alto is based in Rioja Ocidental sub-region of the DO and was the result of a decade of focus, search, and trial and error by its winemaking team led by Giles Cooke, MW. Y Mas, the “more” part, covers the additional finds of highquality sources outside of Rioja with Navarra and La Mancha prominently featured in its wine catalogue.

Field Blend (Airen, Verdejo, Moscatel, Albilo & Malvasia)

Field Blend (Tempranillo, Syrah, Graciano, Monastrell, Tinto Velasco)

$ 28 $ 336 $ 28 $ 336

From vineyards 750 metres above sea level, an eclectic mix of grapes : Airen, Verdejo, Moscatel, Albillo and Malvasia. A medium-yellow hue. The nose displays mediumintensity aromas of pear, peach with a floral lift; it’s simple but attractive. The palate is dry with a low but sufficient acidity, a medium extract, a soft texture, a medium body and notes of pear, melon, peach and a fragrant, medium-plus finish. It starts quietly but builds to a nice presence. 2024-2025 –ir

12%

From one-kilometre-high vineyards. The wine has a deep-purple ruby color and medium-plus intensity nose with floral, pickling spice, red plum and wild strawberry preserve aromas. It is dry with a medium-sized structure – acidity, extract, finetextured tannins and body with fitting length and persistence of sugared red plum, wild strawberry preserve, creamy/doughy notes, floral and pickling spice hints and roasted beetroot, wrapping up with a medium finish. 2024-2026 – ir

14%

Sugared red plum, wild strawberry preserve, creamy/doughy, floral, pickling spice and roasted beetroot

Roasted vegetable medley with honeybalsamic glaze

Pear, peach, floral

Pear, melon, peach, fragrant

Buttery garlic prawns

Floral, pickling spice, red plum and wild strawberry preserve

4873

TE QUIERO, WHITE FIELD BLEND, DO LA MANCHA, VITICULTURA ORGÁNICA, 2022

4874

TE QUIERO, RED FIELD BLEND, DO LA MANCHA, VITICULTURA ORGÁNICA, 2021

CELLAR 314

YUKON

4875 DE ALTO AMO CRIANZA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2019

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano

$ 45 $ 270

A deep-purple ruby, opaque appearance. The nose offers a medium-intensity aromatic set of black plum reduction, cooked beetroot, vanilla, mint and cream. With a mediumminus acidity, the palate is dry and delivers a medium extract, medium fine-textured tannins and a medium body with lovely length and intensity showing a nice poise with elements of plum reduction, vanilla, mint, beetroot and creamy, and a medium-plus finish. 2024-2026 –ir

13.5%

4876 DE ALTO AMO COLECCION

PRIVADA RESERVA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2018

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano

$ 53 $ 318

80% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacha, 5% Graciano : this 2018 Reserva cuvée is fresh, full-bodied, and tightly knit on the palate. A range of ripe, yet tangy dark fruit aromas and flavours give a youthful character, with underlying spice and licorice notes adding interest. Finishes with firm, yet well-structured tannins. Drinking well now with good short term ageing potential. 2024-2029 –jb

4877 DE ALTO AMO LA PLANTA MAGICA VIÑA VIEJAS, DOCA. RIOJA, 2021

Garnacha

$ 82 $ 246

14%

Plum, cassis, nutmeg, dark chocolate

Andalusian rabo de toro (oxtail stew)

The wine has a medium deep ruby robe and medium intensity aromas of chicory root, marigold, chestnut, hay, red plum reduction and poached red pear. The palate is dry with a low but adequate acidity, a medium extract, light to medium fine soft-textured tannins and a medium body. The medium-plus length is matched by fruit with flavours of chicory root, red plum reduction, floral note, chestnut, hay and poached red pear and plum, closing with a creamy, medium-plus finish. Finesse. 20242028 – ir

13.5%

Chicory root, marigold, chestnut, hay, red plum reduction and poached red pear

Chicory root, red plum reduction, floral note, chestnut, hay, poached red pear and plum, creamy

Roasted shoulder of lamb with anchovy and salsa verde

Black plum reduction, cooked beetroot, vanilla, mint and cream

Plum reduction, vanilla, mint, beetroot, creamy

Spanish Idiazabal cheese

Dark plum, blackberry, cassis, nutmeg, licorice

SPAIN

Loess

The Vino Loess adventure began in the early 2000s when local wine expert Jaime Saez de La Hoya decided to purchase prime vineyard sites in Ribera del Duero and Rueda. The estate is named after a type of sedimentary soil that predominates in these areas. The Loess Collection strives to make the highest quality wines from these reputed Spanish regions.

Tempranillo

$ 42

$ 252

This is a youthful, vibrant Ribera del Duero, aged for nine months in oak. Restrained aromas of dark fruits, baking spice and cherry liqueur gain in intensity with aeration. The palate is fresh, full-bodied, and quite firm though balanced by lively fruit flavours. Needs a little time for the tannins to soften. 2025-2030 –jb

14.5%

Plum, blackberry, kirsch, clove

Blueberry, black cherry, dried herbs, mocha

Pollo al ajillo

Tempranillo

$ 58

$ 348

The “Blue Capsule” cuvée is a full-bodied Tempranillo with tempting notes of red and dark fruit, underscored by hints of sweet spice, coffee and dark chocolate. The palate is full-bodied yet satiny smooth with a generous, fleshy texture. Finishes on a pleasantly warming note with subtle savoury notes. 2024-2032–jb

14.5%

4878

LOESS INSPIRATION, TEMPRANILLO EN ROBLE, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2022

Plum, cherry, black pepper, floral

Plum, cherry, mocha, dried herbs

Aged Manchego and Catalonian Arbequina olives

4879 LOESS BLUE CAPSULE, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2021

4880

MARQUÉS DE REINOSA CASE3 BOTTLES EACH: CRIANZA AND RESERVA

$ 41 $ 246

This Marqués de Reinosa mixed case allows Spanish red-wine lovers to compare fruitier, earlier-drinking Crianza with longer aged, more robust Reserva level wines.

BODEGAS MARQUÉS DE REINOSA

The vineyards of the Bodegas Marqués de Reinosa draw moisture from the nearby Cicados River. The Sierra de Yerga and Peña Isasa cliffs tower over the area providing cooling air overnight to temper the warm, Mediterranean climate. These key factors allow the estate to produce Rioja wines with fine typicity, powerful structure and balanced freshness.

MARQUÉS DE REINOSA CRIANZA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2020

Tempranillo

A warming Tempranillo with fragrant aromas of ripe black plum, cherry and baking spice. The palate is full-bodied and velvety smooth with predominant vanilla and toasty oak nuances that linger on the finish. Quite a youthful blend with its fruity character and prominent oak. Serve ever so slightly chilled. 2024-2027–jb

MARQUÉS DE REINOSA RESERVA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2019

Tempranillo

The 2019 Reserva Rioja from Marqués de Reinosa is full-bodied and firm in structure with a pleasing brightness that carries through to the finish. Initially discreet, the nose develops aromas of tangy dark fruit and oaked overtones of cedar and spice with aeration. This is a wine to decant and slowly savour over the course of a good meal. 2024-2029 –jb

BETTER AND BEST IN ONE CASE

Plum,

Hearty Andalusian puchero meat stew

Cedar, cassis, licorice, savoury

Cassis, plum, dark cherry, vanilla

Morteruelo pâté

Dark plum, black cherry, clove, nutmeg

cassis, vanilla, baking spice

Bodegas Aradón

Perched on a plateau at 550 metres in Rioja, there once lay a small village called Aradón : over time, the hamlet mysteriously disappeared. In its place, old vineyards of Tempranillo now grow. The local grape growers refer to the land as Aradón in tribute. Bodegas Aradón produces white and red Rioja wines that embody three generations of acquired winemaking wisdom.

NEW

Tempranillo, Garnacha

$ 42 $ 252

An unoaked, early-drinking style of Rioja brimming with dark fruit and spiced flavours. The palate is medium weight with a refreshing attack and a broad, velvety midpalate. Moderately firm tannins give a nice structural framework to the finish. Drinking well now. 2024-2027–jb

14%

Blackberry, dark cherry, plum, nutmeg

Ripe dark fruit, dried herbs, dark chocolate

Grilled lamb pinchitos

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo

$ 51

$ 306

The Tempranillo, Garnacha and Mazuelo vines for the Rioja Reserva are over 50 years old, venerable vineyards producing low yields of complex, concentrated fruit. The 2016 vintage has had seven years in barrel and bottle to mellow and harmonize. The result is an amply proportioned red wine with developed notes of leather and dried flowers mingling with still vibrant, lively fruit. 2024-2032–jb

14.5%

Plum, potpourri, leather, baking spice

Plum, cassis, licorice, dried herbs

Pastel de chocolate y almendras (chocolate and almond cake with port)

4881 ARADÓN TINTO, DOCA. RIOJA, 2022

4882 ARADÓN RESERVA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2016

REGION FOR THIS CELLAR

PRODUCER FOR THIS CELLAR

photo — The expert winemaking team at Bodegas Aradón, who bring centuries of inherited knowledge to each harvest, a tradition passed down through generations.

$ 106 $ 318

The Graciano grape variety is primarily grown in the region of Rioja. It produces deeply coloured wines with bright acidity and perfumed, fruity aromas. Though the grape is mainly used as a secondary blending grape, many estates are now producing a varietal Graciano. This 2019 is dense and powerful with enticing aromas and lip-smacking flavours. Needs time for the bracing acidity and grippy tannins to soften.

2025-2035 –jb

13.5%

blueberry, peony, graphite, exotic spice

Tart black and blue fruit, cocoa

Roast Iberico pork shoulder with charred tomatoes

$ 111 $ 333

Another important red grape in Rioja is Garnacha (a.k.a. Grenache noir). A favourite grape for growers in Mediterranean climates around the world, Garnacha produces fruit-forward wines with lots of charm. This 2018 vintage is still very youthful with refreshing acidity and firm tannins. Its juicy red and dark fruit flavours are complemented by pleasant dark chocolate, spice and savoury notes.

2024-2034 –jb

15%

Plum,

Red cherry, candied black currant, plum, floral

Dark chocolate, mocha, licorice, savoury

Chorizo al vino bar snack

4883 ARADÓN GRACIANO, DOCA. RIOJA, 2019

Graciano

4884 LA GARNACHA PROMETIDA DE ARADÓN, DOCA. RIOJA, 2018

Garnacha

photo — The perfect blend of Mediterranean warmth and Continental-Atlantic freshness, providing an ideal environment for the vines to flourish.

4885

Grenache, Carignan

$ 42 $ 252

A broad, weighty blend of Grenache and Carignan with heady notes of cooked dark fruit, kirsch, and Asian spices. The palate is broad and mellow with juicy fruit flavours and velvety tannins. This spicy, supple red is a nice, warming choice for a cold winter’s eve. 2024-2029–jb

14%

Macerated cherry, kirsch, plum, exotic spice

Dark cherry, plum, tea leaf, savoury

For savouring in front of the fire

SPAIN

La Conreria d'Scala Dei

This well-regarded Priorat estate is named after a Medieval priory, the Cartoixa d’Scala Dei which translates to “the steps to God. » Its ruins lie next to the domaine.

Winemaker and co-owner Jordi Vidal crafts powerful, nuanced wines from a patchwork of Priorat terroirs famed for their steep slopes and slate soils. The estate also produces fine reds from the surrounding Montsant appellation.

FINCA MORES + 3, DO MONTSANT, 2021

4886

LA CONRERIA SELECCIÓ ESPECIAL MAR D'ESTELS, DO MONTSANT, VINYES ÚNIQUES, 2021

Grenache, Carignan

$ 55

$ 330

A powerful, intriguing red wine marrying gamey notes of leather, tar and hints of smoke with ultra-ripe dark fruit aromas. The palate is equally sweet fruited and savoury, with brisk acidity providing lift through the finish. Needs a hearty food pairing. Drink now or cellar for up to five years. 2024-2029–jb

13.5%

Leather, tar, dark plum, stewed cherry

Dark cherry, animal savoury, slightly vegetal

Asturian bean stew with morcilla and blood sausages, paprika and saffron

4888

4887

LA CONRERIA D'SCALA DEI NONA, DOQ PRIORAT, 2021

Grenache, Carignan, Merlot, Syrah

$ 73

$ 219

The “Nona” cuvée features Grenache, Carignan, Merlot, and Syrah aged for just under a year in French oak barrels of varying sizes. The 2021 vintage is flora with ripe black and blue fruit and undertones of wild Provençal herbs. The palate is bright and juicy with vivid dark fruits and tobacco hints. Needs a little time for the lively acidity and firm tannins to soften. 2025-2033 –jb

14.5%

Violet, baked black fruits, wild herbs

Blackberry, blueberry, tobacco, cocoa

Catalan meatball stew

LA CONRERIA D'SCALA DEI LES BRUGUERES NEGRE, DOQ PRIORAT, 2021

Grenache, Syrah

$ 85

$ 255

This Grenache-Syrah blend is somewhat atypical in its aromatic profile but perhaps all the more intriguing. Refreshing spearmint notes lift the heady dark fruit which ranges from crushed to candied in its potency. The palate is herbal, spiced and dark fruited with brisk acidity, a precise, chiselled structure and fine-grained tannins. 2024-2032–jb

14%

Candied black currant, spearmint, cedar, spice

Blackcurrant, plum, licorice, mint

Jamón and chorizo montadito open-faced sandwiches

4893

$ 22

$ 264

The Mi Tractor Azul (my blue tractor) is a multiregional range focused on producing fruity, rounded, early-drinking wines from mature 20–40-year-old vines across the best regions of Spain. This mixed case allows drinkers to compare the terroirs of Almasa and Toro.

Garnacha Tintorera

The wine region is located 100 kilometres to the southwest of Valencia, inland. This area of Castilla-La-Mancha is best known for its bold Monastrell (a.k.a. Mourvèdre) wines but also produces some interesting bushvine Grenache. This is a good-value example with lots of floral, dark-fruited charm and pleasing minty undertones which provide a lot of freshness. Full bodied and juicy with broad, subtle tannins. 2024-2027– jb

14%

Violet, cassis, dark cherry, spearmint

Tangy cherry, cassis, raspberry, mint

Roasted pork tenderloin with blackberry sauce

Tinta de Toro

The wine region of Toro, in the northwestern area of Castilla y León, is renowned for its powerful, firm Tempranillo red wines. The Mi Tractor Azul cuvée harnesses the bold character of Toro into a more early-drinking, approachable style with tangy red and black fruit flavours. A full-bodied, unoaked red. Needs a hearty food pairing to match its chewy tannins. 2024-2027– jb

14.5%

Red currant, cassis, plum, floral

Plum, dark cherry, cassis, savoury

Hearty food pairing

NEW

Garnacha Tinta

$ 23

$ 276

The Flor de Unx red wine rounds off this trio nicely. To the northeast of Rioja, Navarra is well regarded for its bright, fruity Grenache wines. This 2022 vintage is medium in body with tangy acidity, lifted dark fruit flavours and mellow tannins. It is best served slightly chilled and will pair with a wide range of dishes. 2024-2026–jb

14%

MI TRACTOR AZUL TINTA DE TORO, DO TORO, 2023

MI TRACTOR AZUL GARNACHA TINTORERA, DO ALMANSA, 2022

MI TRACTOR AZUL CASE6 BOTTLES EACH: GARNACHA TINTORERA AND TINTA DE TORO

Dark cherry, blackberry, plum

Dark cherry, blackberry, plum, subtle spice

Grilled lamb chops

4915 FLOR DE UNX GARNACHA, DO NAVARRA, 2022

FLOR DE UNX GARNACHA BLANCA, DO NAVARRA, 2023

Garnacha Blanca

The Flor de Unx wines from the Navarra region of Spain are smooth, dry, unoaked and easy drinking. The Garnacha Blanca offers pleasant orchard fruit aromas and flavours. The palate is light in body with a soft, rounded finish. Drink now as an easy weeknight apéritif wine. 2024-2026– jb

13%

FLOR DE UNX ROSADO, DO NAVARRA, 2023

Garnacha Tinta

The Flor de Unx Rosado is a light-bodied, dry rosé with discreet red apple, berry and floral hints. The palate is smooth and refreshing. The pretty, medium-pink colour is achieved by allowing the Garnacha grapes to macerate on their skins for a short period before pressing. Good, thirst quenching, everyday rosé. 2024-2026– jb

13%

With snacks as a casual weeknight apéritif

Goat Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken Breast

EVERYDAY WINES WINES TO SAVOUR ANY DAY OF THE WEEK

4916

FLOR DE UNX GARNACHA

CASE - 6 BOTTLES OF EACH: BLANCO AND ROSADO

$ 23 $ 276

QUICKLY BECOMING A BESTSELLER!

Red apple, red berries, floral

Apple, red currant, lemon

Pear, yellow apple, apricot

Pear, yellow apple, apricot [2.00]

Mauricio Lorca

Mauricio Lorca was set to pursue a medical degree when recruiters from an enological school came to give a talk at his university. The field immediately drew his interest and made him switch tracks. Today, Lorca is a highly respected winemaker in the Mendoza region of Argentina. His wines from the prime Uco Valley terroir are Opimian-Member favourites. Lorca now produces wine in both his native Argentina and in Spain. In this range of Spanish wines, Lorca brings his wealth of experience in premium non-oak winemaking techniques to bear.

HISTORIAS PASAJERAS NÓMADE ALBARÍN, CASTILLA Y LEÓN, MAURICIO LORCA, 2023

BRINGING

Albarin

$ 24

$ 288

The Albarín grape (no relation to Albariño) is a little-known variety grown in northwestern Spain and Portugal. It thrives in high altitude areas producing light, refreshing white wines. This 2023 vintage is brimming with zesty citrus and passion fruit notes with subtle herbal undertones. The palate is light-bodied and rounded with a soft, smooth finish.

2024-2026 –jb

NEW

HISTORIAS PASAJERAS MEMORIAS TINTO BARRICA, CASTILLA Y LEÓN, MAURICIO LORCA, 2022

Prieto Picudo

$ 40 $ 240

13%

The Tinto Barrica cuvée from Castilla y León is produced from the local Prieto Picudo grape. This red variety is known for its deep colour, bold structure, brisk acidity and ripe flavours. Aged in oak for many months, this robust red features intriguing herbal, ripe dark fruit and Asian spice flavours. The palate is firm and weighty with chalky tannins that provide a nice framework.

2024-2029 –jb

13.5%

Grapefruit, passion fruit, lemon, herbal

Grapefruit, passion fruit, lemon, herbal [1.8]

Tuna ceviche with avocado and citrus

Exotic spice, green peppercorn, plum

Dark fruit, herbal, hint of smoke

Slow-braised lamb shoulder with sherry

4899

4900

MAURICIO'S WINEMAKING EXCELLENCE TO SPAIN

VIÑA PEÓN MENCÍA DE AMANDI,

VIÑA PEÓN SELECCIÓN D'FRIS

Mencía

$ 41 $ 246

Mencía, Garnacha Tinta, Tempranillo

$ 24

$ 288

A pleasant blend that marries the lively redfruited character of Grenache, the herbal savouriness and bright acidity of Mencía and the smooth, rounded-palate profile of Tempranillo. Features fresh, balanced acidity and a medium-weight frame. A pleasant, unoaked wine. Serve chilled. Drinking well now. 2024-2027–jb

14%

Tangy red fruit, herbal, subtle floral hints

Plum, red cherry, earthy, bitter herbs

Goat stew with paprika and sherry

Mencía is a red grape variety native to northwestern Spain. It produces red-fruited, floral wines with lovely freshness and pleasantly savoury undertones. This 2022 vintage is a great example: medium in body with loads of juicy red and dark fruit flavours. The finish is framed by fine-grained tannins and lingering minty freshness. 2024-2027–jb

Mencía

$ 55

13.5%

Red cherry, plum, smoky, gamey

Red currant, dark plum, savoury herbs

Bocadillo de albóndigas meatball sandwich with tomato gravy

$ 330

The wine has an opaque deep-purple ruby color and medium-intensity nose with elements of sugared plum, prune, chives, a floral note and a hint of woody spice. Shy-ofmedium but with sufficient acidity on the palate, it is dry with a medium extract, medium medium-textured tannins, a medium body and nice length and persistence of prune, chives, cola and nutmeg flavours wrapping with a medium finish. 2024-26 – ir

13.5%

Sugared plum, prune, chives, floral note and woody spice

Prune, chives, cola and nutmeg

Chorizo croquetas

4901

ABRIENDO CAMINOS RED BLEND, PRODUCTO DE GALICIA, MAURICIO LORCA N/V

4902

PRODUCTO DE GALICIA, MAURICIO LORCA, 2022

4903

AMANDI, BARRICA, PRODUCTO DE GALICIA, MAURICIO LORCA, 2022

photo — The slopes are inclined up to 70° and the vineyards are carved into the hilly topography, making mechanization impossible.

NEW

This is a deep-purple ruby, opaque wine. It has medium-intensity aromatics of fennel and oregano sausage, prune, crushed carnations, honey and plum jam. On the palate, it is dry and has a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, medium fine-textured tannins and a mediumplus body with a truly impressive length and persistence with plum, prune, floral, herbs, crushed flowers, toffee and creamy flavours – a lot’s going on the palate – with a long lasting finale. 2024-2032 – ir

13%

Fennel and oregano sausage, prune, crushed carnations, honey and plum jam

Plum, prune, floral, herbs, crushed flowers, toffee, creamy

Sautéed mushrooms with paprika and garlic

CELLAR 314 — YUKON

4905

Mencía, Garnacha Tinta, Souson

$ 75 $ 225

From slopes ranging between 40% and 70% incline. A deep-purple ruby, opaque appearance. The nose promises with medium intensity aromas of red fruit, red plum reduction, toffee, char and a floral (carnation?) note. The palate is dry and delivers with a medium-framed structure – acidity, extract, fine-textured tannins and body, a lovely length and well-enunciated variations on the aromatic theme – prune spread, black plum skin, a hint of endive, char and creamy/custardy note and a medium-plus finish. 2024-28 – ir

13%

Red fruit, red plum reduction, toffee, char, floral

Prune spread, black plum skin, endive, char, creamy/custard

Grilled sirloin steak with blackberry sauce

4904

CAMINO EMPEDRADO DE MAURICIO LORCA TINTO, RIBEIRA SACRA, 2021

CAMINO EMPEDRADO DE MAURICIO LORCA, AMANDI, RIBEIRA SACRA, 2022

Meet Mauricio Lorca –Spain’s Self-Made Trailblazer

By Seema Pal, dipWSET, CAPS Sommelier

Opimian is proud to have esteemed Mauricio Lorca as a wine partner. He is an acclaimed wine producer, famed for his Argentinian wine. Mauricio personally oversees every stage of wine production to ensure top quality vinification, ranging from pruning, pressing, fermenting, bottling and storage. With his intense passion for his craft, it may seem as though he always had these plans in mind, however this is not the case. Before embarking on his winemaking journey, he was about to start medical school before he decided to pursue his dream of creating top quality, artisanal wine. With his heart in the winemaking industry, he changed paths. We are glad he did.

In Argentina, aging wine in oak is incredibly common. Mauricio Lorca is a pioneer in the production of unoaked premium wines with the avant-garde mindset to bottle what nature provides alongside modern vineyard management. In his youth, he worked at Finca La Celia and suggested to produce Cabernet Franc, which the winery rejected. He decided to create it on his own, and it was so highly praised that one Swiss importer purchased the entire lot. This experience drove Lorca to create wineries of his own.

In 2017, Lorca fell in love with Ribeira Sacra in Galicia, Spain which led him to establish two wineries in this region. He embraced the challenge of planting vines in an arduous terroir with the confidence that he can produce top quality wine. Lorca’s vineyard area is so steep that most of the work is done by hand with limited usage of machinery. Although tedious, these steep slopes aid in growing top quality grapes due to ideal drainage, the cooling effect that retains acidity, increased light interception and the minimalization of pests and diseases. Other factors in the vineyard are the nearby rivers Sil and Mino which aid in frost reduction, ripening with the reflected light onto the grape, and the extension of the growing season with their moderating effects. The nutrient-poor slate soils that exist in his vineyards also assist in the production of top-quality grapes. The quality of Mauricio Lorca’s wines stands out. His numerous awards for his Spanish wines have secured his worldwide recognition. Among the many awards are the Best of Spain Wine Challenge. Mauricio Lorca’s wines have received gold and the much coveted “Grand Gold” awards at the Best of Spain Wine Challenge in the Netherlands, and silver and gold in the Best of Spain Wine Challenge in Ireland. The Guía Peñín wine guide also awarded two of Lorca’s Spanish wines with 90 points in 2023. It is clear how Mauricio Lorca and his team’s hard work and perseverance has paid off.

Interested in trying out C314’s selection of Spanish wines from Mauricio Lorca? Try the Coup de coeur Camino Empedrado de Mauricio Lorca Tinto, Ribeira Sacra, Lot 4904 on page 26.

SPAIN Bodegas Gutiérrez Colosia

The Gutiérrez Colosia family have been making sherry wines in the Andalucian region of Jerez since 1938. Their winery is buffeted by dry “Levante” and humid “Poniente” winds which create ideal conditions for flor to develop – a veil of yeast that grows on top of wine ageing in-barrel protecting it from oxidation and imparting unique flavours and texture).

Palomino

$ 56 $ 168

Manzanilla wines are aged exclusively under flor, like Fino sherries. However, they are produced and matured in the area of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, which is nearer the sea than Jerez. The difference in climate yields a lighter, more floral style of wine with the same bone-dry palate and lively finish. This is a pleasing example of the style with its discreet perfume of spring blossoms and fine texture. 2024-2026

Brandy de Jerez

$ 97

$ 291

Brandies from Jerez are aged in the region’s traditional solera system of stacking barrels in multi-level towers, each layer from a new vintage. Each time a portion of wine is drawn off from the bottom (the oldest) layer, the barrels are topped with the layer just above. This process of fractional blending allows complex, multi-vintage flavours to develop. This smooth, powerful brandy ages for over ten years in solera.–jb

As an aperitivo

Powerful,

Chamomile, yellow apple, almond, brioche

Subtle orchard fruit, almond, savoury

Dried fruit, honey, sandalwood, varnish

Earthy, savoury, toffee, smoke

smooth and full-flavoured

–jb

4906 GUTIÉRREZ-COLOSÍA MANZANILLA, DO MANZANILLASANLÚCAR DE BARRAMEDA N/V

4907 AMERIGO VESPUCCI BRANDY DE JEREZ, SOLERA RESERVA, N/V

375ml

GUTIÉRREZ-COLOSÍA SHERRY CASE - 3 BOTTLES EACH

YOU'LL BE DELIGHTED WITH THE DIVERSITY OF SHERRY $ 36 $ 432

The winemaking process in Jerez is unique. Ageing lightly fortified wines under a layer of yeast allows for distinctive aromas, flavours and mouthfeel that you won’t find on any other wines. This mixed case of Fino and Amontillado half bottles is a great opportunity to explore the style.

GUTIÉRREZ-COLOSÍA FINO, DO JEREZ-XÉRÈS-SHERRY

Palomino

The Gutiérrez-Colosía Fino is aged in-barrel for over three years under a veil of flor, in a classic solera. It features all the signature characteristics one expects of good Fino: delicate aromas, a bone-dry palate, refreshing acidity and a pleasant sharpness that makes these wines such a perfect match for tapas platters. 2024-2026 –jb

GUTIÉRREZ-COLOSÍA AMONTILLADO, DO JEREZ-XÉRÈS-SHERRY

Palomino

Amontillado wines are aged for a period under flor before continuing their evolution without this protective barrier. The second, oxidative phase of ageing allows a richer texture and more nutty, toffee, dried-fruit notes to develop. This is a lovely example with a concentrated, layered palate and lingering salinity. 2024-2029–jb

GUTIÉRREZ-COLOSÍA PEDRO XIMÉNEZ, DO JEREZ-XÉRÈS-SHERRY

Pedro Ximénez

Pedro Ximénez is the name of a grape used in the sherry region to make luscious, sweet wines. The grapes are dried to concentrate their flavours before vinification, fortification, and long solera ageing. This is an unabashedly hedonistic wine with a deep mahogany colour, heady flavours and a thick, ultra-smooth palate texture. Fresh acidity provides balance and lift. The ultimate wine for fruitcake, or to pour over vanilla ice cream! 2024-2040 –jb

18%

Molasses, raisins, dried flowers, nutmeg

Treacle, prune, walnut, baking spice

Drizzled over vanilla ice cream

GUTIÉRREZ-COLOSÍA OLOROSO, DO JEREZ-XÉRÈS-SHERRY

Palomino

Oloroso sherries are fortified to a higher alcohol strength than Finos, preventing the growth of flor. They age for many years in barrels that are not fully topped up. This allows a subtle oxidation over time, giving them a richer, rounder palate and nutty flavours. Bodegas Gutiérrez Colosia Oloroso ages for up to nine years in solera. It is bold, flavourful and highly complex. Good ageing potential. 2024-2034 –jb

15%

Baker's yeast, almond, green apple, earthy

Baker's yeast, almond, green apple, savoury

Tapas platter with soldaditos de Pavía deep-fried cod

18%

Salted caramel, baker's yeast, sandalwood, dried apple

Caramel, baker’s yeast, apple, salinity

Grilled octopus with pimentón

18%

Walnut, toffee, dried cherry, sandalwood

Walnut, treacle, mulling spice, earthy

Classic gazpacho

NEW

LOT 4896

FINCA VILLALOBILLOS PIE

FRANCO, AIRÉN, SINGLE

VINEYARD, TOLEDO, 2022

13.5 %

Airen

A medium-bodied Airen wine with nut milk, starfruit, and thistle notes, featuring a soft texture, medium acidity, and medium-plus finish, from ungrafted vines planted in 1935. It is dry on the palate with a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, a soft texture and a medium-plus to full body. It displays lovely length and persistence of yet rolled up fruit with elements of citrus, starfruit, thistle, lees and nut milk taking us to a medium-plus finish. 2024-2026.

$ 42

$ 252

MIXED CASE

LOT 4894 AND LOT 4895

LEONOR DE CARRERA BRUT, TRADITIONAL METHOD, DO CAVA, NV

11.5 %

Macabeo, Xarel·lo, Parellada

The wine is light yellow in the glass with a medium intensity aromas on the nose - a touch oily/leesy, then hints of citrus, yellow apple/plum and toast. An extra dry sparkling wine offering medium intensity aromas of citrus, yellow apple, and toast. Medium finish. 2024-2026.

$ 26

$ 312

OROT, DO TORO, OROT BODEGA, 2022

The Orot cuvée from Bornos Bodegas & Viñedos is a weighty, tightly knit red wine with attractive florality. Its dark fruit profile is ripe and rounded, balanced by lively acidity. Finishes with firm tannins and subtle dark chocolate bitters. A well balanced, unoaked red that offers good value. 2024-2029.

$ 39

$ 234

OROT ROBLE, DO TORO, OROT BODEGA, 2020

The Orot Roble cuvée is aged for six months in a mix of French and American barrels giving hints of cedar, baking spice, and vanilla to the nose and palate. This is a taut, sinewy red wine with brisk acidity and vivid red and dark fruit flavours. The finish is framed by firm, muscular tannins. Decant for an hour before serving. 2024-2029.

$ 40

$ 240

4895 4894

A Conversation with Gómez de Segura

In a conversation with Opimian, we explore the intricacies of their winemaking practices, and the distinctive elements that set them apart.

How would you describe the overall winemaking philosophy, and what sets your approach apart?

We start from the premise that “wine is made on the vine” - we must always collect the best grapes to obtain the best wine. The grapes come from our own vineyards, all bush vines and in very poor soils in which respect for the environment is taken into account in each action. In the winery, we work with native yeasts, that is, the fermentation is carried out without the addition of selected commercial yeasts or nutrients, thus achieving the maximum expression of the terroir and the varieties in the wine produced.

Can you highlight some of the key grape varieties that you work with, and what characteristics they bring to your wines?

In the case of Tempranillo we obtain fine, friendly and silky wines on the palate. In addition, they have an intense red color with violet nuances in their youth and aromas of ripe red fruit, wild fruits, vanilla, tobacco, chocolate and herbal and floral touches. The white varieties Viura and Malvasía give us floral and fruity aromas that make our wines very drinkable.

In what ways does the location of your winery influence the flavour profile and characteristics of your wines?

Bodegas Gómez de Segura is located in El Campillar, Laguardia, in the heart of Rioja Alavesa. It is located between the Sierra de Cantabria and the Ebro River. The mountain range protects us from the cold that comes from the North and creates a special microclimate, Atlantic with Mediterranean influence. In this area the soil types are clay-calcareous, stony and poor. We obtain wines with a bright and vivid color; with a fine and intense aroma, and a fruity flavor, which is velvety and warm on the palate.

Could you elaborate on the testing process conducted by the external laboratory to ensure the quality of the corks?

To guarantee the quality of the corks we use, we have an external Laboratory that analyzes different parameters. Depending on the results, the batch of caps will be used or rejected.

How do you go about carefully choosing these barrels, and what impact does the choice of French and American oak have on the aging process?

For the Vendimia Seleccionada we use American oak. These barrels provide more pronounced flavors and notes of coconut, vanilla and hot spices to red wines. American oak tannins tend to be more pronounced, which can provide structure and firmness. For Crianza we mix French oak with American oak barrels and for the most unique wines we use only French oak. French oak casks tend to bring subtlety and elegance to red wines. They give us notes of spices, vanilla and toast in a more subtle way, allowing the characteristics of the grape and the terroir to be expressed more clearly.

Can you walk us through the process of sampling and testing the grapes before the harvest to determine the best time for hand-picking?

To determine the manual harvesting of our grapes in the months of August and September we begin with field sampling. Parameters are assessed such as the health status of the vineyard, the evolution of acidity, sugars in the grapes, thickness of the skin and size. In addition, the grapes are tasted to see the sensations in the mouth. Based on the results and the weather forecast, we determine when and at which plot the harvest will begin.

Is your winery open for visitors? How can Opimian Members get in touch?

Yes, the Gómez de Segura Family is delighted to receive wine tourists and show them who we are and what we do. Opimian members can contact us by email: info@gomezdesegura.com

Josean Gómez de Segura.

SPAIN Gómez de Segura

The Gómez de Segura winery is situated in Rioja Alavesa where they grow 50 hectares of vines. This subregion of Rioja has vineyard plantings at quite high altitudes but where they are protected from cold, wet Atlantic conditions by the Sierra de Cantabria Mountain range. This results in a moderate, sunny, reasonably dry climate producing Riojas with vivid flavours and balanced structure.

Tempranillo

$ 37

$ 222

Carbonic maceration is a winemaking technique used to produce fruit-forward, light styles of red wine with soft tannins. The process is common in regions like Beaujolais and is increasingly seen around the world. This Tempranillo is a fruit-forward, uncomplicated wine that is dangerously easy-drinking when served slightly chilled. 2024-2026–jb

13%

Apple, pear, melon

Apple, melon hints grapefruit pith

Chilled as an aperitivo

Viura, Malvasia

$ 47 $ 282

This Spanish white is a light, easy drinking wine to sip on a hot day. Discreet orchard fruit and melon hints feature on the nose. The palate is linear and soft, with refreshing bitter citrus notes that add interest on the finish. Serve chilled as an apéritif wine. 2024-2026 –jb

13%

Apple, pear, melon

Apple, melon hints grapefruit pith [1.00]

A refreshing aperitivo or with tofumushroom Vietnamese coconut curry

4909

GÓMEZ DE SEGURA TEMPRANILLO MACERACIÓN CARBÓNICA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2022

4910

GÓMEZ DE SEGURA BLANCO, MALVASÍA Y VIURA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2023

photo — Siblings Ana and Josean Gómez de Segura sampling their wines in the vineyard.

4911

GÓMEZ DE SEGURA TEMPRANILLO ROSADO, DOCA. RIOJA, 2023

Tempranillo

$ 37 $ 222

Tempranillo is the signature grape variety of Rioja, producing full-bodied, serious red wines but also fruity, refreshing rosado (rosé). But don’t be fooled by the bright pink colour : this is a dry rosé with tangy, red fruit flavours, and a smooth, light palate. Good everyday rosé. 2024 –jb

4912

GÓMEZ DE SEGURA TEMPRANILLO, VENDIMIA SELECCIONADA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2022

Tempranillo

$ 41 $ 246

13%

Red apple, red currant, earthy

Barbecued veggie skewers

This monovarietal Tempranillo is crafted from old vines grown in claylimestone soils in the Rioja Alavesa region. The 2022 vintage is expressive with ripe dark fruit, licorice, floral undertones and wooded hints from six months aging in new French oak barrels. The palate is fruit-driven and tangy with moderately firm, chalky tannins. 2024-2027–jb

FINCA

4913

14%

Plum, black cherry, licorice, floral

Plum, cherry, licorice, dark chocolate

Vegetable lasagna

RATÓN RESERVA TEMPRANILLO, DOCA. RIOJA, GÓMEZ DE SEGURA, 2018

Tempranillo

$ 80

$ 240

The Finca Ratón Tempranillo from Gómez de Segura is produced with some of the estate’s oldest vineyards – over 65 years of age. These vines produce lower yields of more complex, concentrated fruit. The 2018 vintage is powerful and dense with intense dark fruit and spice notes over savoury herbs. The finish is warming with persistent oak spice. 2024-2032–jb

14%

Plum, cassis, cinnamon, hint vegetal

Dark chocolate, cinnamon, plum, dried herbs

Delmonico steak with grated cheese and buttered herbed breadcrumbs

Red apple, red currant, floral hints

4914

GÓMEZ DE SEGURA CASE3 BOTTLES EACH: CRIANZA AND RESERVA DE LA FAMILIA

$ 52

This Gómez de Segura mixed case allows Spanish red wine lovers to compare a fresh, youthful Crianza-level red with an older vintage Reserva – each offering a nuanced expression of oakaged Tempranillo.

SOME FOR NOW AND SOME FOR YOUR CELLAR

$ 312

GÓMEZ DE SEGURA TEMPRANILLO CRIANZA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2020

$ 0

Tempranillo

Made exclusively from old-vine Tempranillo, this 2020 Rioja Crianza is aged in French and American oak casks for 12 months. There is notable complexity and textural appeal on display here : a wide aromatic range of red and dark fruits mingles with smoky, gamey undertones. The palate is fullbodied, fleshy and fresh. 2024-2028– jb

GÓMEZ DE SEGURA TEMPRANILLO RESERVA DE LA FAMILIA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2018

Tempranillo

14%

The Reserva de la Familia cuvée is also produced from the estate’s old-vine Tempranillo and aged in barrel for 12 months – but here only mediumtoast new French oak is used. The blend is then bottled and aged for another 24 months in-bottle before release. The nose is quite pretty with red fruit, citrus, spice and gamey undertones. The palate is firmer with lively acidity, a linear palate and lingering oakderived spice nuances. 2024-2030– jb

14%

Baked red and dark fruit, smoke, game, cedar

Juicy red, dark fruit, savoury herbs, cocoa

Chocolate beetroot cake with raspberry coulis

Raspberry, dark cherry, orange peel, spice

Tart dark fruit, brambly, dark chocolate, clove

Zamarano cheese

SPANISH PALATE

Nicola Thornton left the U.K. to follow her passion for wine in Spain. After years of working in cooperative wine cellars and private wineries, she decided to venture out on her own. Thornton saw a need to help small, independent wineries find new sales markets around the world. In 2016, she founded Spanish Palate. The company ethos is to partner with wineries that display “unique, regional character” and produce “wines with soul, wines with art, wines that stir up our emotions.” These estate wineries are located across the country, representing the wide diversity of wine styles that Spain offers.

$ 36 $ 216

From old vines, some up to 100 years of age. A deep-purple ruby, opaque robe. A little shy on the nose, slightly lifted with aromas of red and black plum reduction, vanilla and chocolate. Dry on the palate with a ripe, shy-of-medium acidity, it is a more-ish, medium-plus wine in all other dimensions, not only in extract, fine-textured tannins and body but in length and persistence. It also has a good depth of fruit (if a little stacked right now) with elements of black plum reduction, vanilla, chocolate and a medium-plus finish. 2025-2028–ir

14.5%

Red and black plum reduction, vanilla and chocolate

Black plum reduction, vanilla, chocolate

Grilled lamb chops with plum glaze

Monastrell

$ 36 $ 216

From ungrafted, 60-year-old bush vines. Deep purple ruby, opaque in appearance. The nose shows medium-intensity aromas of dark fruit, hickory, juniper/fresh sage, sugared black plum, chocolate, cream and vanilla with an earthy hint. The palate is dry and has a medium acidity, a medium extract, medium fine-textured tannins, a medium body and nice length and intensity of flavours of sour black plum, sappy herbs, chocolate, cream, earth with a hint of cold smoke/tar on a mediumplus finish. 2024-2026 – ir

Tempranillo

$ 39 $ 234

14%

Sourced from 100-year-old bush vines at 850 metres elevation. The wine shows a deep-purple ruby, opaque robe and medium intensity aromas of custard/cream cheese, vanilla, dark fruit/ plum/prune and blueberry tart. With a medium acidity, it is dry and medium-framed: extract, loose-textured tannins, body and length showing a nice intensity if a bit straightforward along with plum, vanilla, ink, dried blueberry pie and a mediumwarm finish. 2024-2026 – ir

14%

Gemelli with chorizo and cherry tomatoes

$ 43 $ 258

60-year-old-plus vines yielded this wine. A deeppurple ruby, opaque in the glass. The nose leads with medium-plus intensity, lifted aromas of carnations, game, pickling spice, tar/cold smoke and lard/black olive tapenade richness. The dry palate follows with a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, medium-plus fine-textured tannins and a medium-plus to full body. The frame is supported by a lovely length as well as persistent flavours of tar/smoke, vanilla, cream, pickling spice and game trailing into a medium-plus finish. 2024-2028 –ir

15%

Tar/smoke, vanilla, cream, pickling spice and game

Rosemary and olive oil-marinated grilled lamb skewers

Lifted, carnations, game, pickling spice, tar/ cold smoke and lard/black olive tapenade

Dark fruit, hickory, juniper/fresh sage, sugared black plum, chocolate, cream and vanilla, earthy

Sour black plum, sappy herbs, chocolate, cream, earth, hint of cold smoke/tar

Pernil-style roast pork shoulder with sofrito and rice

Custard/cream cheese, vanilla, dark fruit/ plum/prune, blueberry tart

Plum, vanilla, ink, dried blueberry pie

4889 BOTAS DE BARRO TINTA DE TORO, DO TORO, 2022

Tinta de Toro

4892 4 ROSAS NEGRAS, ANCIENT VINES, DO TORO, 2022

Tinta de Toro

4890 BOTAS DE BARRO MONASTRELL, DO JUMILLA, 2022

4891 BOTAS DE BARRO, TEMPRANILLO, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO 2022

GERMANY

With its northern latitudes, Germany has been blessed (or burdened) by a unique set of circumstances. These conditions allow even its cooler areas to produce wines of an unparalleled delicacy with a unique sweetness, acidity interplay and breed from the grapes that anywhere else would be considered under-ripe. Yet here, they have managed to develop a lovely, very wellenunciated fruit intensity – and Riesling excels at that. With the increasingly warmer vintages

$ 37

$ 222

Also known as Pinot Gris, this wine shows a light-yellow color and medium intensity with poached and dried pear, minerally/ clay, lifted, nutty and earthy/rooty aromas. It is dry on the palate with a medium acidity, a medium extract, a soft-plus texture and a medium body with medium length and intensity of poached and dried pears, earth, clay, hickory and vine stem towards a medium finish. 2024-2026 – ir

and pressure of the domestic market, there is now a greater emphasis on dry or drier wines from Riesling, as well as a greater range of grapes – many of which are also excellent, albeit representing a departure from the formerly dominating off-dry or "fruity" style. Thankfully, we don't have to miss out on either: in this offering, we have the best of both worlds — as well as the style in between the extremes — crafted by a winemaker obsessed with authenticity and quality. 12.5%

Poached and dried pear, minerally/clay, lifted, nutty and earthy/rooty

Poached and dried pears, earth, clay, hickory and vine stem [12.90]

Pear, walnut and goat cheese salad with a bit of arugula

4849

MARKUS MOLITOR TRADITION GRAUBURGUNDER, MOSEL (YELLOW CAP), 2022

Pinot Gris

Markus Molitor

The eighth generation in the dynasty, Markus Molitor has been driven to bring the acclaim and respect back to the Riesling wines of Mosel – the kind enjoyed in early the 19th century when they out-priced even the better Bordeaux and Burgundy reds. He has gone about it by growing his holding in the top sites of the region, and then shepherding the wines to their purest expression by using the ambient yeast ferment and a long time on fine lees. He is well on his way, given the “Mr. 300 Point” nickname earned after three of his 2013 wines tallied a perfect score in Wine Advovate, and with some of his wines going for multiple reserve bids at auctions. To help navigate their extensive range better, they developed the « cap colour » system for their white wines, signaling to customers the sweetness level at a glance : white is for dry, green is for medium and gold is for sweeter styles.

4850

Riesling

219

4851

1500ml

From the vineyard with a proportion of ungrafted 100-year-old vines. The wine shows a light-yellow colour and softer impact aromas of thistle milk, oatmeal, wax/ paraffin, fresh daisy/camomile and lemon sorbet, with a savoury hint. The palate is dry with a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, a soft-plus texture, a medium-plus body and lovely length and fruit with waxy, oatmeal, nuts, lemon sorbet and floral elements concluding with a medium-plus finish. 2024-2030 – ir

11.5%

MARKUS MOLITOR EINSTERN, PINOT NOIR, MOSEL, 2019

Pinot Noir

4852

4853

1500ml

Classic pad Thai

$ 82

$ 246

$ 246

$ 246

A deep ruby hue to this red. The nose showcases medium-plus intensity aromas of shoe polish, roof tar/shingle, hickory, black cherry reduction, with floral and fleshy fruit elements (blood orange?) present with a little airing. The palate is dry with a medium acidity, a medium extract, medium fine-textured tannins, a medium body, medium length and fruit with flavours of roof tar, black cherry reduction, spice/clove and blood orange, and a medium-plus finish. 2025-2028 –ir

13%

Shoe polish, roof tar/shingle, hickory, black cherry reduction, with floral and fleshy fruit éléments (blood orange?)

Roof tar, black cherry reduction, spice/clove and blood orange [0.10]

Pan-seared salmon filet with ginger-citrus sauce

MARKUS MOLITOR ZELTINGER

SONNENUHR SPÄTLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL (WHITE CAP), 2020

Thistle milk, oatmeal, wax/paraffin, fresh daisy/camomile, lemon sorbet, hint savory

Wax, oatmeal, nuts, lemon sorbet and floral [12.90]

$

$

4854

MARKUS MOLITOR KABINETT RIESLING CASE: 1 BOTTLE EACH

$ 73 $ 219

MARKUS MOLITOR ERDENER TREPPCHEN KABINETT, RIESLING, MOSEL (WHITE CAP), 2020

Riesling

This mixed case offers a trio of wine of same ripeness level, recent age, similar sweetness too – on the dry end of the spectrum – but from different top-notch sites. Again, with a low-intervention approach and pretty much the same treatment in the winery – slow and long ambient yeast ferment and extended lees contact afterwards – this is a casestudy of how the vineyards’ signature comes through in the glass.

10.5%

Savoury, cabbage roll, verbena, lamb lanolin and dried lemon peel

Waxy, savoury, lamb lanolin, cabbage rolls, and dried citrus peel [9.40]

Pasta salad with shrimp, sautéed cherry tomatoes and pine nuts

This southwest-facing site features weathered red slate. A light-yellow hue here. It opens with a medium-plus intensity aromatic set with savoury, cabbage roll, verbena, lamb lanolin and dried lemon peel elements. The palate is dry with a medium acidity, a medium extract, a soft-plus texture, a medium body and waxy, savoury, lamb lanolin, cabbage rolls and dried citrus peel flavours mirroring the nose and concluding with a medium finish. 2024-26 – ir

MARKUS MOLITOR GRAACHER DOMPROBST KABINETT, RIESLING, MOSEL (WHITE CAP), 2020

Riesling

With a southwest aspect, this vineyard enjoys a relatively deep topsoil of clayey slate and fine earth. It has a light-yellow appearance and a medium-plus intensity nose with textural, mealy, gritty elements and aromas of poached lemon, verbena and wax/paraffin. The palate is dry with a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, a medium texture and a medium body, showing a lovely length and intensity of oatmeal, wax/paraffin, lemon oil and dried lemon with a floral hint and a medium-plus finish. 2024-28 –ir

10.5%

Mealy, gritty, poached lemon, verbena and wax/paraffin

Oatmeal, wax/paraffin, lemon oil and dried lemon, a floral hint [10.20]

Tempura shrimp with lemon-dill aïoli

MARKUS MOLITOR ZELTINGER SONNENUHR KABINETT, RIESLING, MOSEL (WHITE CAP), 2020

Riesling

A south-southwest facing vineyard with weathered clayey slate and a proportion of very old, ungrafted vines. A medium yellow in the glass, it offers medium-intensity aromas of dried lemon and yellow apple, a hint of smoke, dried pear, a touch of chlorophyll, oatmeal and citrus oil. With a medium acidity, it is dry on the palate, displaying a medium extract, a soft texture, a medium body with a cushy mouthfeel, a medium length with a bit of lean fruits – hints of lime and lemon – chlorophyll and slate/ smoke, and a medium finish. 2024-26–ir

10.5%

Dried lemon and yellow apple, a hint of smoke, dried pear, a touch of chlorophyll, oatmeal and citrus oil

Hints of lime, lemon, chlorophyll and slate/ smoke [10.10]

Oysters on the half-shell with green apple mignonette

4855

MARKUS MOLITOR WEHLENER KLOSTERBERG SPÄTLESE VERTICAL TASTING CASE: 1 BOTTLE EACH

$ 75 $ 225

This is a mini-vertical collection of three vintages of a Spatlese level, medium-sweet wine from the same single vineyard. This site is adjacent to the estate and is dominated by Devonian slate. Given the fact that the treatment is pretty much the same for these wines in the winery, all the differences can only be accounted for by the individual vintages’ expression, and the difference of time spent in the bottle.

AVAILABLE AS MAGNUMS IN WOOD CASES, SIGNED BY MARKUS MOLITOR!

WEHLENER KLOSTERBERG SPÄTLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL (GREEN CAP) MAGNUM IN WOOD CASE –SIGNED BY MARKUS MOLITOR

Riesling

1500ml

4856 2020

4857

1500ml

4858

MARKUS MOLITOR WEHLENER KLOSTERBERG SPÄTLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL (GREEN CAP), 2020

Riesling

The wine has a light-yellow color and a medium-intensity complex aromatic set: mealy, lemon pith, lanolin, savoury/ cabbage roll, crab apple, mothballs and Meyer lemon sorbet. The palate is near-dry and shows a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, soft texture, a medium-to-full body, as well as nice length and persistence of waxy, lanolin, slate, crabapple, naphtha and poached Meyer lemon flavours, wrapping up with a mediumplus finish. 2024-34 – ir

MARKUS MOLITOR WEHLENER KLOSTERBERG SPÄTLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL (GREEN CAP), 2019

Riesling

11%

Mealy, lemon pith, lanolin, savory/cabbage roll, crabapple, mothballs and Meyer lemon sorbet

Wax, lanolin, slate, crabapple, Naphtha and poached Meyer lemon [22.50]

Roast goose with apple-sage stuffing

$ 236

$ 236

$ 232

$ 232

$ 232

$ 232

MARKUS MOLITOR WEHLENER KLOSTERBERG SPÄTLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL (GREEN CAP), 2018

Riesling

A light-yellow in appearance.

On the nose it has mediumintensity mealy, chalk, slate, lemon seed, wax, lanolin aromas and a hint of ripe cheese. The palate is neardry and consists of a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, a soft-plus texture, a mediumplus body and lovely length and fruit with flavours of slate, oil, paraffin, wax, crabapple and a hint of tangerine marmalade tailing off into a medium-plus finish. 2024-32– ir

11%

Mealy, chalk, slate, lemon seed, wax, lanolin and ripe cheese

Slate, oil, paraffin, wax, crabapple, a hint of tangerine marmalade [23.40]

Spicy curried-chicken Asian noodles

The wine has a medium-yellow appearance and a mediumintensity nose with wool/lanolin, crabapple, naphtha, lemon oil and tangerine aromas. With a medium acidity, the palate is offdry showing a medium extract, a soft texture, a medium body, and attractive length and intensity of lemon oil, verbena, lamb wool, crabapple, poached pear and a medium-plus finish. 2024-34 – ir

10.5%

Wool/lanolin, crabapple, naphtha, lemon oil and tangerine

Lemon oil, verbena, lamb wool, crabapple and poached pear [37.20]

Char-grilled chicken tikka masala

NEW

MARKUS MOLITOR WEHLENER

SONNENUHR AUSLESE**, RIESLING, MOSEL (WHITE CAP), 2019

Riesling

From one of the very best sites in Mosel with a high proportion of old, ungrafted vines. Still a very youthful pale-yellow color in the glass. The nose offers medium-intensity aromas of slate and slate dust, rose, tangerine and bottle-age notes of lanolin or wax. Dry, it is very long and with an impressive fruit persistence of wax, lemon oil, lifted, floral, rose and mimosa notes with minerally, stony components wrapped around a medium-plus-sized, nicely proportioned structure : acidity, extract and body with a soft-plus texture all tapering into a medium-plus finish. 2024-2032– ir

12%

Slate and slate dust, rose, tangerine, lanolin/wax

Wax, lemon oil, lifted, floral - rose and mimosa, minerally/stony [11.00]

Beetroot-cured gravlax

MARKUS MOLITOR SAARBURGER

RAUSCH AUSLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL (GOLD CAP), 2017

Riesling

4859

MARKUS MOLITOR TRICOLORA CASE: 1 BOTTLE EACH

$ 106

$ 318

MARKUS MOLITOR BERNKASTELER

BADSTUBE AUSLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL (GREEN CAP), 2020

Riesling

Sourced from the best plots of this prime vineyard. A light-yellow appearance. The nose opens with a medium-intensity aromatic set : meaty, lifted, fragrant, mothballs, crabapple, blood orange, hint of ferrous and gamey/savoury. The palate is dry and follows with a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, a soft-to-medium texture and a medium-plus body. It has a nice length with fragrant fruit featuring wax, lanolin, mothballs and Meyer lemon preserve flavours unfolding towards a medium-plus finish. 2024-28 – ir

10.5%

Meaty, lifted, fragrant, mothballs, crab apple, blood orange, hint of ferrous and gamey/savoury

Wax, lanolin, mothballs and Meyer lemon preserve [30.30]

Shallow-fried crab cakes with Meyer lemon aïoli

Mango, apricot preserve, lemon marmalade, goldenrod and citrus oil

Poached pear and peach, mango, apricot preserve, lemon preserve, oily/waxy [104.20]

Vegetable korma with nuts and coconut milk

From the blue Devon slate, basalt and red iron-rich soils of this Saar prime site. This has a deep yellow color. The nose displays medium-intensity aromas of mango, apricot preserve, lemon marmalade, goldenrod and citrus oil. It is medium-sweet on the palate with a mediumplus acidity, a high extract, a full body and lovely length and persistence of poached pear and peach, mango, apricot and lemon preserves and a coating, oily/waxy, medium-plus finish. 2024-32–ir

SCAN TO SEE THE TERROIR ON MARKUS MOLITOR'S WEBSITE!

4860 MARKUS MOLITOR ZELTINGER SONNENUHR BEERENAUSLESE*, RIESLING, MOSEL (GOLD CAP), 2006

Riesling

375ml

WORLD CLASS LIBRARY WINE FOR YOUR COLLECTION

From a vineyard with a portion of ungrafted, ancient vines made with individually picked shrivelled berries. A developed, lightamber appearance. The nose confirms with a medium-plus intensity lifted, layered alloy of advanced aromas : dried and poached pears, smoke, verbena, lemon oil, goldenrod and mushrooms. The very sweet but nicely balanced palate completes the picture with a medium acidity, a high extract, a full body and impressive length and persistence of poached and dried pears, mango, lemon oil, peach and a medium-plus finish. 2024-2038– ir

7%

Lifted, layered, dried and poached pears, smoke, verbena, lemon oil, goldenrod and mushrooms

Poached and dried pears, mango, lemon oil, peach [192.20]

Hot and sour Vietnamese beef salad with lemongrass and chilies

4861 MARKUS MOLITOR ERDENER TREPPCHEN TROCKENBEERENAUSLESE, RIESLING, MOSEL (GOLD CAP), 2006

Riesling

375ml

A blue-slate dominated site. The colour is a maturing medium amber. The aromas are of medium intensity and complex with poached pear, smoke, golden raisins, honey, caramel, oil, moss/underbrush and lemon essence elements. The palate is very sweet but balanced with a medium acidity and showing a high extract, a softplus texture and a full body followed by a pretty remarkable length and intensity with poached and dried pears, honey, golden raisins and verbena flavours gliding towards a medium-plus finish. 2024-2038+– ir

6.5%

Poached pear, smoke, golden raisins, honey, caramel, oil, moss/underbrush and lemon essence

Poached and dried pears, honey, golden raisins and verbena [266.50]

Wiener Schnitzel and sauerkraut

Wines from the treasury

Wines from the treasury

MARKUS MOLITOR OCKFENER BOCKSTEIN, PINOT NOIR, MOSEL, 2019

Pinot Noir

A very deep ruby robe, this one leaps from the glass with pretty, high-intensity aromas of toast/smoke, grilled hazelnuts, oatmeal, vanilla, custard and black cherry reduction. A nicely fitted, dry palate with a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, mediumplus silky textured tannins, a medium-plus body and a lovely length and fruit intensity of black cherry reduction and toast/smoke, vanilla/custard – all very nicely integrated and a long finish. 2024-30– ir

13%

Toast/smoke, grilled hazelnuts, oatmeal, vanilla, custard and black cherry reduction

Black cherry reduction, toast/smoke, vanilla/custard [0.20]

Rheinischer sauerbraten

MARKUS MOLITOR BRAUNEBERGER MANDELGRABEN QUALITÄTSWEIN, PINOT NOIR, MOSEL, 2019

Pinot Noir

A medium-plus ruby appearance. On the nose it has a moderate intensity with mostly aroma overtones – cherry, lactic/ custard, spice, pickling notes and beetroot. The palate is dry, with a medium acidity, a medium extract, medium fine-textured tannins and a medium body. The length and fruit intensity are in proportion to the rest of the frame with red cherry soup, lactic, pickling note and boiled beetroot flavours and a medium finish. 2024-2026– ir

13.5%

Cherry, lactic/custard, spice, pickling notes and beetroot

Red cherry soup, lactic, pickling note and boiled beetroot [0.30]

Apple-stuffed roast duck

Pinot Noir

This has a deep ruby hue and a medium intensity nose with creamy, black cherry reduction, blood orange and lardy/rich aromatics. With a medium acidity, it is dry on the palate and shows a medium-plus extract, medium-textured fine tannins and a medium-plus body. It continues with nice length and persistence with a bright fruit set : red and black cherry, cream, spice/nutmeg, blood orange, hints of tar and hickory and ending with a medium-plus finish. A leaner, more linear Pinot – possibly a vineyard’s expression. 2024-28– ir

13%

Creamy, black cherry reduction, blood orange, lardy/rich

Red and black cherry, cream, spice/nutmeg, blood orange, hints of tar and hickory [0.20]

Cambozola cheese

COLLECTOR’S CORNER

RARE WINES TO ENHANCE YOUR CELLAR

$ 152 $ 456

A yet rare opportunity to experience the same vintage of single-vineyard expressions of Pinot Noir from some of the most famous vineyards in all of Mosel – and Germany. True to his convictions, Molitor uses ambient yeast fermentation, which is followed by a year-plus ageing in new French barriques.

4862

MARKUS MOLITOR PINOT NOIR CASE - 1 BOTTLE EACH

MARKUS MOLITOR GRAACHER HIMMELREICH, PINOT NOIR, MOSEL, 2019

The Bottle Shop

Wines exclusively offered online

LEONOR DE CARRERA BRUT, TRADITIONAL METHOD, DO CAVA, NV

Airén

$ WEB $ WEB

Ungrafted Airén vines planted in 1935. A medium yellow appearance. The nose consists of lifted, medium intensity aromas of nut milk, starfruit and a slightly acrid, thistle note. It is dry on the palate with a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, a soft texture and a mediumplus to full body. It displays lovely length and persistence of yet rolled up fruit with elements of citrus, starfruit, thistle, lees and nut milk taking us to a medium-plus finish. 2024-2026 – ir

4894

Macabeo, Xarel·lo, Parellada

$ WEB

$ WEB

375ml

4895

13.5%

Citrus, starfruit, thistle, lees and nut milk

Seafood paella

$ WEB

$ WEB

The wine is light yellow in the glass with a medium intensity aromas on the nose - a touch oily/leesy, then hints of citrus, yellow apple/ plum and toast. It is extra dry with lazy fine mousse on the palate, and medium structural components – acidity, extract, texture and body, wrapped into a nice length and fruit intensity of yellow plum, lees, oil, toast and slight pith bitterness. Medium finish. 2024-2026.–ir

11.5%

Oily/leesy, citrus, yellow apple/plum and toast

Yellow plum, lees, oil, toast, citrus pith

Tapas and appetizers including Spanish olives, cured meats (like Serrano ham), seafood skewers, or patatas bravas

Nut milk, starfruit and thistle

4896

FINCA VILLALOBILLOS PIE FRANCO, AIRÉN, SINGLE VINEYARD, TOLEDO, 2022

OROT, DO TORO, OROT BODEGA, 2022

Tempranillo

The Orot cuvée from Bornos Bodegas & Viñedos is a weighty, tightly knit red wine with attractive florality. Its dark fruit profile is ripe and rounded, balanced by lively acidity. Finishes with firm tannins and subtle dark chocolate bitters. A well balanced, unoaked red that offers good value. 2024-2029 –jb

14.5%

Peony, dark cherry, blackberry, spice

Tangy dark fruit, dark chocolate, spice

A cheese platter featuring aged Manchego, Mahón, or Idiazabal cheeses

OROT

ROBLE, DO TORO, OROT BODEGA, 2020

Tempranillo

The Orot Roble cuvée is aged for six months in a mix of French and American barrels giving hints of cedar, baking spice, and vanilla to the nose and palate. This is a taut, sinewy red wine with brisk acidity and vivid red and dark fruit flavours. The finish is framed by firm, muscular tannins. Decant for an hour before serving. 2024-2029–jb

14.5%

Red and dark cherry, potpourri, cedar

Red currant, cherry, mint, savoury

Grilled steak, such as ribeye or sirloin

4917

OROT BODEGA CASE3 BOTTLES EACH: OROT AND OROT ROBLE

$ WEB $ WEB

This mixed case features a duo of unoaked and oaked Tempranillo wines from the sandy-clay soils of the Toro region.

Meet Markus Molitor, “Mr. 300 Points”

Germany’s most awarded winemaker

Popup! WEB

Introduce a new member to Opimian, and you’ll each receive a case of de Alto Amo Coleccion Privada Reserva, DOCa. Rioja, 2018, to celebrate together!

In 2015, three of his wines from the 2013 vintage received a rating of 100 points from The Wine Advocate; thus his nickname, “Mr. 300 points” (Herr 300 Punkte in German). We are pleased to announce that Opimian has secured a small allocation of these outstanding wines from this brilliant winemaker. Don’t miss this opportunity to get your hands on these top-scoring wines, as they usually sell out in record time!

Only at Opimian.ca beginning February 27.

LIMITED TIME – LIMITED QUANTITIES – WEB ONLY

300-2170