C324-MB

CELLAR ORDER MAR 26 - APR 28, 2025

SPAIN

Beloved Opimian partner Mauricio Lorca in Spanish vineyards.

OPIMIAN.CA

CA 324

SPAIN There is only a single line on wine in Encyclopedia Britannica’s chapter on Spain, yet the country has well over three millennia of recorded winemaking history, with the evidence of grape growing going back much further. It has the most land under vine of any other country in the world – and for being this far south in Europe, it boasts a surprisingly diverse selection of wines, thanks to a wide variety of unique, locally adapted grape varieties that thrive in these conditions. Its varied landscape, range of elevations and proximity to the water that surrounds most of the Iberian

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Peninsula allows for the warmth-loving, native Tempranillo, Garnacha and Monastrell from the inland regions to be joined by also elegant, local wines white Albarino and Godello and red Mencía from the northwest. The historic wines of Jerez and Montilla in the south are complemented by refreshing sparkling Cava from northeast Spain near the Mediterranean. A curated and representative cross-section of what Spain has to offer – with its history, diverse regions, millennial wine know-how and unique grapes – is the core of this Cellar’s selection.

5444

HISTORIAS PASAJERAS MEMORIAS TINTO BARRICA, CASTILLA Y LEÓN, MAURICIO LORCA, 2023 Prieto Picudo

$ 33

$ 198

The grape responsible for this wine, Prieto Picudo, is believed to be native to Castilla y León and makes deep-colored wines with fresh acidity and sturdy structure, a case in point here: it is a black-purple, opaque pour. On the nose, we find mediumintensity aromas of caramel, prune spread, chokeberry preserve, dried pear and orange peel. The palate is dry and shows a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, medium-plus fine powdery-textured tannins and a medium-plus body with a seductive, coating and juicy presence. It continues to unfold with matching medium-plus length and intensity of dried pear, prune spread, chokeberry preserve, floral element and citrus peel, closing with a medium-plus finish. 2025-2029–ir

GALICIA

VIÑAS DE BELESAR (MAURICIO LORCA) Viñas de Belesar is Argentine Mauricio Lorca’s project initially dedicated to the wines of Ribeira Sacra of Galicia, a historic region with centenary vineyards on steep, vertiginous slopes along the Sil and Miño Rivers tended by generations of local grape growers. It is one of the chapters of Mauricio’s quest to reconnect with his roots, written with wine, paying homage to his ancestors who left this land in search of a better future and whose decisions, many years later, allowed him to return to and honor the land where it all began.

The winery’s focus has since expanded to include the nearby corner of Castilla y Léon that shares history and grapes with Galicia.

LEARN MORE ABOUT VIÑAS DE BELESAR

13.5% Caramel, prune spread, chokeberry preserve, dried pear, orange peel Dried pear, prune spread, chokeberry preserve, floral, citrus peel Brisket burgers with caramelized Vidalia onions

PRODUCER FOR THIS CELLAR

— SPAIN VIÑAS DE BELESAR

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5445

HISTORIAS PASAJERAS MEMORIAS GODELLO, CASTILLA Y LEÓN, MAURICIO LORCA, 2024

VIÑA PEÓN MENCÍA DE AMANDI, PRODUCTO DE GALICIA, MAURICIO LORCA, 2023

Mencía

Godello

$ 29

5446

$ 174

Here is an attractive take on the grape making its name in neighboring Galicia.

The wine displays a medium lemon-yellow appearance and medium-intensity notes of ripe fresh quince, white currant, yellow kiwi or yellow gooseberry, daffodils and chives. Dry with a medium acidity, the palate has a medium-plus extract, a soft texture, a medium-plus body and lovely length and fruit of lemon sorbet, yellow kiwi, fresh quince, flowers and chives, and a medium-plus finish. Nice freshness and no oak. 2025-2026– ir

$ 33

$ 198

From 50-year-old Mencía vines on the steep 30°-40° banks of Sil River in the Amandi zone of the region. No oak influence. A deep ruby, opaque hue. It opens with mediumintensity aromas of mulberry compote, lees, paste, red plum jam and flint/struck match. The palate is dry and follows with a medium acidity, a medium extract, medium fine-textured tannins, a medium body and lovely presence and persistence of mulberry compote, red plum jam, lees and flint, and a medium finish. A little unfocused at first but pulls it together in the end; a little time in the bottle will help settle it down. 2025-2026–ir 12.5% Mulberry compote, lees, paste, red plum jam, flint/struck match Mulberry compote, red plum jam, lees, flint Cecina dried beef with olives and cheeses

13% Ripe fresh quince, white currant, yellow kiwi or yellow gooseberry, daffodils, chives Lemon sorbet, yellow kiwi, fresh quince, flowers, chives, [<1.80] Grilled prawns with citrus-herb vinaigrette

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5447

VIÑA PEÓN SELECCIÓN D'FRIS AMANDI, BARRICA, PRODUCTO DE GALICIA, MAURICIO LORCA, 2023

Mencía

$ 49

$ 294

NEW

The wine pays homage to the founder of the winery, who went by the nickname “Fris,” and is sourced from the 40°-70° slopes along Sil River and spent six months in new oak, 70% American and 30% French.

It shows a deep purple appearance and medium-intensity elements of tar, smoke, red plum preserve, carnations, oil/cream, black olive and grilled lemon. Dry, the palate offers a medium acidity, a medium extract, medium fine-textured powdery tannins, a medium body and develops slowly to medium-plus length and fruit intensity with tar, hickory, oil, cream cheese, grilled black plum and lemon, with a medium-plus finish.

It takes time to open on the palate but does get there. 2025-2026–ir 13% Tar, smoke, red plum preserve, carnations, oil/cream, black olive, grilled lemon Tar, hickory, oil, cream cheese, grilled black plum and lemon Pepper steak

5448

CAMINO EMPEDRADO DE MAURICIO LORCA, BLEND DE FINCAS, RIBEIRA SACRA, 2021 Mencía, Garnacha Tinta, Caiño Tinto, Sousón

$ 98

$ 294

This is a Mencía-based blend from three plots along the Miño River from slopes up to 70˚ with 12 months in 30% American and 70% French new oak. A deep purple, opaque color in the glass. The nose displays a medium-plus intensity lifted set with carnations, tar, hickory smoke, red plum and cornelian cherry preserves, rosehip, cream, vanilla and chives, turning slightly metallic with air. The palate is dry and medium-framed: acidity, extract, finetextured tannins and body with lovely presence and persistence of carnations and rosehip, hickory smoke, smoked meat spices, red plum and cornelian cherry preserves, vanilla and cream, wrapping with a medium-plus finish. Again, takes time to show on the palate but certainly does – and is worth the wait. 2025-2028–ir

13% Lifted, carnations, tar, hickory smoke, red plum and cornelian cherry preserves, rosehip, cream, vanilla, chives, metallic Carnations and rosehip, hickory smoke, smoked meat spices, red plum and cornelian cherry preserves, vanilla and cream Venison stew

— SPAIN VIÑAS DE BELESAR

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EDITORIAL

Elevating the Everyday: Exceptional Wines for Your Cellar

By Michael Lutzmann and Greg Rinehart, Opimian Managing Directors

Dame Maggie Smith famously remarked on Downton Abbey, in a haughty British accent, “What is a week-end?”—having had no experience with the work week. Wine should be approached the same way! In this Cellar, we’ve elevated our “Everyday Wine” selection to span a full six pages. But these aren’t just any everyday drinkers—they’re Master of Winetasted and selected gems that far exceed their price points. Fair warning: once these are in your cellar, you’ll find far fewer reasons to visit your local liquor store. A win-win, in our opinion!

Mauricio Lorca is a familiar name in this editorial space and graces our cover once again—for good reason. His wines, this time hailing from Spain, are simply outstanding.

Alongside those from Giles Cooke, the winemaking MW, you’ll find an embarrassment of riches to enjoy. We’re incredibly fortunate to have top-tier producers like these choose Opimian as their exclusive agent in Canada.

In every Cellar, you’re seeing only the very best of what your MWs taste. Even within that elite selection, there are always a few that stand out above the rest—Opimian’s Coups de Coeur. Be sure to check out page 9 to learn more about these highlights.

Cheers to spring and the summer ahead!

Michael & Greg

SPAIN............................................................................................................................................................... P2 Viñas de Belesar (Mauricio Lorca)............................................................................................... P3 Cava...................................................................................................................................................................P8 COUPS DE COEUR................................................................................................................ P9 Bodegas deAlto (Giles Cooke MW)..........................................................................................P10 Bodegas Concavins............................................................................................................................. P12 CELLAR UP!.............................................................................................................................P13 Loess............................................................................................................................................................... P14 Bodegas Marqués de Reinosa..................................................................................................... P15 EVERYDAY WINES.............................................................................................................. P16 Spanish Palate........................................................................................................................................ P22 Bodegas Aradón................................................................................................................................... P24 Spanish Treasures: High-Scoring Wines............................................................................. P26 Traslanzas................................................................................................................................................... P28 La Conreria d´Scala Dei................................................................................................................... P29 COLLECTOR’S CORNER.................................................................................................. P30

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Ordering Made Easy

YOUR MASTERS OF WINE FOR THIS CELLAR

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.

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.

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.

Legend

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. Let us handle the rest.

British Columbia and Ontario members, your wine will be delivered to your door.

Opimian.ca Residual Sugar Dry = 0-10g/l

Red - White - Rosé - Sparkling - Port/ Dessert - Spirit

Body Light - Medium - Full

Bottle size

Oak Light - Medium - Heavy

Number of bottles in case

Organic2

Aroma

Vegetarian2

Taste

Vegan2

Serving temperature

Top 10 Members' Choice

Percent of alcohol1

Medal winner

Ideal with

Orange wine

Semi dry = 11-30g/l

Jacky Blisson MW: JB

MemberService@Opimian.ca

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.

1 2

Semi sweet = 31-50g/l

Michael Palij MW: MP

Sweet = 51+g/l

Igor Ryjenkov MW: IR

The alcohol percentage value is subject to change before delivery.

This information is provided by our producers and may not reflect Canadian norms.

— CELLAR 324 MASTERS OF WINE

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SPAIN

Cava Without fail, when it comes to Cava, value is the first quality that comes up – and for good reason: it is made in a traditional method, à la Champagne, but starts at prices most Champagne, or other traditional-method wines, cannot touch. Even the best Cava is priced at the entry level non-vintage Bruts from the Grande Marques. This is partly thanks to much more valuepriced land and grapes in the main Cava areas in Catalonia and a high degree of the mechanization in the wineries.

TRADITIONALMETHOD CAVA: EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY AT INCREDIBLE VALUE.

Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are allowed, but most Cavas are built on native grapes: Xarello, Macabeo and Parellada for white and Grenache, Trepat and Monstrell for rosado. So, even if the different grapes and fruit flavours are not the same as in Champagne, it still offers the quality and a great-value sparkling-wine experience with a riper but still fresh fruit, an integrated mousse and less pronounced but certainly present autolytic, umami flavours – qualities for which the traditionalmethod wines are prized.

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NEW

5460

ANNOLIA CAVA BRUT, DO CAVA

Macabeo, Xarel-lo, Parellada

$ 28

$ 168

A classic, lively Cava perfect for casual gatherings or mixing cocktails. Restrained earthy, citrussy notes feature on the nose. The palate is light in body and smooth with vigorous bubbles and refreshing acidity. Finishes dry with pleasant, subtle nutty hints. Drinking well now and over the next couple of years. 2025-2027–jb

5461

LEONOR DE CARRERA BRUT ROSÉ, TRADITIONAL METHOD, DO CAVA

Trepat, Garnacha, Monastrell

$ 33

$ 198

A blend of 40% Garnacha and 30% each of Trepat and Monastrell. A medium salmon rosé appearance, the nose has mediumintensity earthy, savoury notes with chives, braised cabbage, beetroot and a hint of red plum. Dry with a medium-minus acidity and prickly foamy midactive mousse, the palate consists of a medium extract, a medium texture, a medium body and moderate, proportionate, savoury fruit intensity of braised cabbage, red plum and beetroot and a medium finish. 2025-2026–ir

11.5%

11.5% Earthy, lemon, apple

Earthy, savoury, chives, braised cabbage, beetroot and a hint of red plum

Apple, white mushroom, lemon, almond, [<2 ]

Braised cabbage, red plum and beetroot, [7.00]

Fried fish tapas platter

Tortilla Española

COUPS DE COEUR

OUR MASTERS OF WINE'S FAVOURITE WINES IN THIS CELLAR

UP TO THE MINUTE

OPIMIAN EVENTS Producer Tastings Coming to a City Near You in 2025!

Coming Soon! Giles Cook MW from Thistledown Wines and Bodegas DeAlto will be touring Canada, with special events in Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and BC.

JACKY'S COUPS DE COEUR TRES CUESTAS, DOP CIGALES, 2023, LOT 5483, P28

DE ALTO AMO COLECCION PRIVADA RESERVA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2019, LOT 5452, P11

We'll be announcing the dates, locations, and details of each event shortly. Keep an eye on your email inbox and our EventBrite Page for registration information and event updates. We look forward to tasting with you!

Toronto, ON: Opimian Wine Cellar Tastings at DYMON Wine Cellar Register on Eventbrite: 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!

Take your time to make the perfect selection – ordering assistance on the spot.

Meet and connect with your fellow Opimian members and prospective members!

6:30 pm - 8 pm • Thu, Apr 24, 2025 • Thu, Jun 26, 2025

RECORK We have partnered with the pioneering company ReCork to recycle our corks from our cellar tastings, events, and dinners – if you would like to do the same learn more by visiting their website.

Www.recork.com

IGOR'S COUPS DE COEUR BOTAS DE BARRO, VERDEJO, DO RUEDA, 2023, LOT 5470, P22

HISTORIAS PASAJERAS MEMORIAS TINTO BARRICA, CASTILLA Y LEÓN, MAURICIO LORCA, 2023, LOT 5444, P3

COMING SOON: CHEF & THE DISH Private virtual cooking classes taught from the comfort of your kitchen.

Look our for a special Opimian partnership next month! www.thechefandthedish.com

— CELLAR 324 COUPS DE COEUR

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SPAIN

Bodegas deAlto Giles Cooke MW RIOJA Bodegas deAlto is a relatively new name in Rioja but has quickly gained a following for its vibrant, pure-fruited Tempranillo-led blends. The estate lies in the warm sun-drenched sub-region of Rioja Oriental near the Ebro River. The rich diversity of soils here and high elevation

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results in wines of great depth and character. Master of Wine Giles Cooke leads the winemaking team, blending traditional and modern winemaking techniques, including hand-harvesting, fermentation with native yeasts and ageing in a mix of French and American oak barrels.

Cooke’s global experience and refined, terroir-focused approach is amply displayed in Bodegas deAlto wines.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BODEGAS DE ALTO

photo — Giles Cooke MW, Winemaker, walking the Riojan vineyards, tasting for optimum picking time.

5452

DE ALTO AMO COLECCION PRIVADA RESERVA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2019

5453

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano

$ 40

DE ALTO AMO CRIANZA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2022

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano

$ 240

$ 36

$ 216

Medium ruby in colour. Complex, hearty nose of tinned strawberry, raspberry, red cherry, plus delicious spicy notes of cedar and cinnamon. Ripe red and black fruit combine deftly with gentle tannins and acidity on the palate, making for a harmonious and balanced red. The barrel maturation has given this enough structure while leaving the fruit space to assert itself, drawing to a gentle if satisfying close. 2025–2028–mp 13.5% Tinned strawberry, raspberry, red cherry, cinnamon Redcurrant, ginger, cedar, allspice Pork tenderloin with stewed red peppers and onions and balsamic glaze

5454

DE ALTO EL PRIMERO, DOCA. RIOJA, 2021

Garnacha, Tempranillo

$ 38

The Coleccion Privada Reserva is a really approachable, refreshing Rioja with medium body, a plush texture and well-integrated toasty oak. Perfumed ripe red and dark fruit aromas are joined by pleasing spicy undertones on the palate. Finishes with quite firm but fine tannins. Drink now or cellar for up to five years. 2025-2030–jb 13.5%

$ 228

Winemaker Giles Cooke, MW, describes the El Primero Rioja as an “unashamedly contemporary style of Rioja that relies not on oak or age but on quality of fruit.” The winemaking touch is subtle here, with whole-bunch fermentation and ageing in seasoned oak. The result is a heady, fruit forward, floral Garnacha and Tempranillo blend with a deliciously brisk, juicy, full-bodied palate. 2025-2030–jb 14%

Crushed strawberry, red cherry, plum, clove

Baked strawberry, peony, plum, exotic spices

Red fruit, clove, vanilla, chocolate

Blueberry, blackberry, licorice, tea leaves

Medley of grilled mushrooms on polenta

Lamb stew with chickpeas and paprika

— SPAIN BODEGAS DEALTO

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5456

Bodegas Concavins CATALONIA

MONTBLANC 362 ORIGEN NEGRE, D.O. CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2021

Samsó, Cabernet Sauvignon

$ 36

Bodegas Concavins is located near the fortified town of Montblanc in northern Catalonia. The winery, close to historic Poblet Abbey, a Cistercian monastery founded in 1151, is prized for its innovative practices and sustainable commitments. Owner Luis CarbonellFigueras is one of Spain’s leading businessmen and spares no expense on his elegant reds, whites and sparkling wines. The bodega grows a variety of grapes, notably Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Garnacha.

$ 216

This agreeable, full-bodied red from northeastern Spain blends Cabernet Sauvignon with Samsó, the local name for Carignan. The nose is very Cabernet-focused with its hallmark cassis, plum and refreshing eucalyptus notes. The red fruit and savoury hints on the palate are brought by the Samsó.

Well balanced, with fine-grained tannins and brisk acidity. 2025-2030–jb 14.5% Baked strawberry, peony, plum, exotic spices

LEARN MORE ABOUT BODEGAS CONCAVINS

Blueberry, blackberry, licorice, tea leaves Berenjenas eggplant stuffed with beef, peppers, onions and cheese

5457

MONTBLANC 362 RESERVA, D.O. CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2019

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

$ 40

$ 240

This Reserva-tier Cabernet SauvignonMerlot blend is a dense, grippy, brooding yet very well-integrated red. There is a nice balance here of youthful plummy fruit and hints of tertiary character with leather and tobacco notes. The oak is harmonious, bringing attractive exotic spice and smoky, savoury nuances on the finish. Drinking well now or over the next five years. 2025-2029–jb 15% Plum, black cherry, exotic spice, leather Plum, pepper, tobacco, smoky savoury hints Grilled smoked tofu with spiced quinoa

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photo — Winemaker Josep Vadrí and Juan Ballester-Carbonell in the Bodegas Concavins cellar.

INSTANT CELLAR!

Our Cellar Up! program is evolving to make your ordering experience even smoother.

Many Members love to order each of the Coups de Coeur. For this Cellar, you can easily order all four Coups de Coeur, the top selections from your Masters of Wine, with a single lot number.

CHEERS TO CONVENIENCE AND QUALITY.

Tres Cuestas, DOP Cigales, 2023, Lot 5483

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF BUYING CELLAR UP! AND GET THESE WINES AT THIS SPECIAL RATE.

LOT

5490 $ 828

Tempranillo

Whether it's called Tinto Fino, Tinta del País, or any of its other names, Tempranillo is a favourite grape variety among Opimian Members. The fact that two of them have been crowned Coups de Cœur by the Masters is proof positive that we have great taste! You can’t go wrong with this one.

de Alto Amo Coleccion Privada Reserva, DOCa. Rioja, 2019, Lot 5452 Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano

You may have noticed more DOCa designations appearing in the Spanish Cellar recently. This is the highest level of wine classification in Spain, reserved for wines that meet strict standards. This one comes pre-aged by six years, ready for your cellar. You can pour and raise a glass as soon as it arrives!

Botas de Barro, Verdejo, DO Rueda, 2023, Lot 5470

Historias Pasajeras Memorias Tinto Barrica, Castilla y León, Mauricio Lorca, 2023, Lot 5444

You may not pick up on the myriad essences that Igor Ryjenkov, MW, detects with his expert palate, but suffice it to say, this is a complex wine with layer upon layer of deliciousness. A perfect addition to the white side of your cellar. By the way, if you can deconstruct this gem the way he does, we’d love to be your friend!

Bet you don’t have any Prieto Picudo in your cellar right now. That’s about to change.

Mauricio Lorca has managed to charm this variety, which is often used to make rosé, in a way that few can. The result is a finely balanced, flavourful wine that lingers on your palate far longer than expected. Yum!

Verdejo

To order, please go to Opimian.ca and search lot 5490.

Prieto Picudo

5462

LOESS INSPIRATION, TEMPRANILLO EN ROBLE, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2023

Tempranillo

$ 30

5463

LOESS BLUE CAPSULE, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2022

Tempranillo

$ 180

Loess’ Tempranillo vines grow at the lofty elevation of 800 metres. At this altitude, nights are quite cool allowing for a long, slow grape-ripening. This brings intense, complex flavours while retaining very bright acidity. This Tempranillo, aged nine months in French oak, is full-bodied and firm with tangy blue and black fruit, fine tannins and a smooth, minty fresh finish. 2025-2030–jb

$ 49

The Blue Capsule bottling from Loess is fleshier and broader with heady dark fruit and vanilla-spice notes. The palate offers impressive depth of flavour, well matched by lifted freshness and ripe, yet muscular, tannins. This bold Tempranillo, aged for over a year in new and second-fill French oak barrels, has good moderate term ageing potential. 2025-2033–jb

15%

Cassis, blueberry, licorice, graphite

Blue and black fruit, dark chocolate, herbal

Vanilla, plum, cherry, tobacco

Beef and chickpea cocido Madrileño

Slow-braised leg of lamb

Loess RIBERA DEL DUERO Jaime Saez de La Hoya founded Loess in the reputed red wine region of Ribera del Duero. Loess wines, while powerful, are known for their finesse, reflecting the region’s deep, rich loess soil. This wind-deposited sediment is ideal for vine growth. Ribera’s major grape – Tempranillo, or locally, Tinto Fino or Tinta del País – is particularly well suited to this terroir.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LOESS

CELLAR 324 — CANADA

15%

Floral, cedar, blueberry, mint

SPAIN

14

$ 294

MARQUÉS DE REINOSA CRIANZA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2021

Tempranillo

All Tempranillo. The wine shows a black purple, opaque color and a medium-plus intensity typical aromatic set of incense, Manchego cheese, vanilla, smoke, blackberry jam tart, carnations and blood orange peel.

The palate is dry and has a medium-minus adequate acidity, a medium extract, medium fine-textured tannins, a medium body with lovely length and persistence of blackberry jam tart, carnations, tar, smoke, Manchego, blood orange peel and sandalwood flavours fading with a medium finish. 2025-2028–ir 14% Incense, Manchego cheese, vanilla, smoke, blackberry jam tart, carnations, blood orange peel Blackberry jam tart, carnations, tar, smoke, Manchego, blood orange peel, sandalwood Cochinillo roast suckling pig

MARQUÉS DE REINOSA RESERVA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2020

Tempranillo

100% Tempranillo. A deep ruby, opaque pour. On the nose, there are medium intensity notes of tar, hickory smoke, grilled black plum, dried black olive, prune spread, carnations and chives. The acidity is soft but adequate. It is dry with a medium-minus extract, medium medium-textured tannins, a medium-minus body and a nice length with sour plum spread, tar, chives, creamy notes and a medium finish. 2025-2026–ir

5464

MARQUÉS DE REINOSA CASE 3 BOTTLES EACH: CRIANZA AND RESERVA

$ 32

$ 192

14% Tar, hickory smoke, grilled black plum, dried black olive, prune spread, carnations, chives Sour plum spread, tar, chives, creamy Chorizo-stuffed roasted quail

BODEGAS MARQUÉS DE REINOSA This case features two Tempranillos a year apart, both from good, if

slightly different vintages – more concentration in 2021; more elegance and restraint in 2020 – but offering very different experiences that go beyond vintage variation. These are prime examples of how the DO (Denominación de Origin) ageing requirements, the core tenet of the Spanish quality pyramid, impact the final wine. Both are ready to enjoy upon release and will hold admirably for some time: but one offers more resolved tannins and evolved fruit, while the other has a more youthful and bolder appeal and structure.

— SPAIN BODEGAS MARQUÉS DE REINOSA

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MI TRACTOR AZUL GARNACHA TINTORERA, DO ALMANSA, 2023

5465

MI TRACTOR AZUL CASE 6 BOTTLES EACH: GARNACHA TINTORERA AND TINTA DE TORO

$ 19

A GREAT CASE TO ENJOY ANY DAY OF THE WEEK!

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CELLAR 324 — CANADA

$ 228

MI TRACTOR AZUL TINTA DE TORO, DO TORO, 2024

Garnacha Tintorera

Tinta de Toro

Deep ruby in colour. Fresh, sappy nose showing black fruit (bramble, cherry, and plum) allied to white pepper. The palate blends oaky overtones of vanilla and toast with lashings of forest berries, black cherry, cooked and fresh plum. Deliciously fruity and supported by a fine streak of acidity, this has plenty of brio. 2025–2027–mp

The Mi Tractor Azul (“My Blue Tractor”) Tinta de Toro is deep in colour and intensely aromatic, with jammy dark fruit and lifted floral notes. The palate reveals pleasant spiced notes in a medium-bodied frame. A very recent release with taut, firm tannins that need a little time to unfurl.

2025-2028– jb

14%

14.5%

Bramble, black cherry, black plum, white pepper

Blackberry jam, lavender, violet, blueberry

Forest berries, cooked plum, vanilla, toast

Tangy black plum, clove, nutmeg

Grilled lamb chops with balsamic berry sauce

Tapas meatballs with spiced tomato sauce

EVERYDAY WINES

NEW

5449

HISTORIAS PASAJERAS NÓMADE ALBARÍN, CASTILLA Y LEÓN, MAURICIO LORCA, 2024

Albarín

$ 20

5450

HISTORIAS PASAJERAS NÓMADE PRIETO PICUDO, CASTILLA Y LEÓN, MAURICIO LORCA, 2024

WINES TO SAVOUR ANY DAY OF THE WEEK

Prieto Picudo

$ 240

$ 20

$ 240

The Albarín grape is native to northwest Spain, primarily in Asturias and León. A medium lemon-yellow hue in the glass, the wine leads with a medium-plus intensity range of attractive, fragrant and overt elements of fresh quince, aloe, lees/paste, mimosa and Meyer lemon sorbet. It is dry with a medium acidity, a medium-plus extract, a soft-plus texture, a medium-plus body and matching length and persistence of fresh quince, aloe, paste, Meyer lemon sorbet and floral notes towards a medium finish. It has a nice coating presence on the palate yet stays fresh all the way through. 2025-2026–ir

5455

TE QUIERO, RED FIELD BLEND, DO LA MANCHA, VITICULTURA ORGÁNICA, 2023 Tempranillo, Syrah, Graciano, Monastrell, Tinto Velasco

$ 19 The name of this Prieto Picudo cuvee refers to Mauricio’s work to return to this part of Spain generations after his ancestors left it for Argentina. The wine is black-purple, opaque in the glass. The nose offers a medium-intensity aromatic range of tart black plum, cedar, blueberry tart, chives, ink and tar. The dry, medium-sized palate – acidity, extract, fine powdery-textured tannins and body – shows a nice length and features sour black plum, chokeberry, dried blueberry tart, chives, mint, cedar and tar flavours, before a medium-plus finish. 2025-2027–ir 13%

$ 228

Made from a range of grapes inter-planted in the vineyard, as was common in the past, harvested and vinified together. The wine shows a black-purple, opaque color and medium-intensity aromas of tar, broiled custard, onion jam, marigolds, mulberry and blue plum jams. It is dry, has a soft acidity, a light-plus extract, light finetextured powdery tannins but overall a medium-body impression with flavours of plum, flowers, hard candy and torched custard with a medium finish. 2025-2026–ir 14%

13.5%

Fresh quince, aloe, lees/paste, mimosa, Meyer lemon sorbet

Tart black plum, cedar, blueberry tart, chives, ink, tar

Tar, broiled custard, onion jam, marigolds, mulberry and blue plum jams

Fresh quince, aloe, paste, Meyer lemon sorbet, floral, [<1.80]

Sour black plum, chokeberry, dried blueberry tart, chives, mint, cedar, tar

Plum, flowers, hard candy and torched custard

Grilled vegetable skewers with citrus dressing

Grilled wild mushrooms on black olive harina de maiz

Pan con tomate

— SPAIN EVERYDAY WINES

17

FLOR DE UNX ROSADO, DO NAVARRA, 2024

5466

FLOR DE UNX GARNACHA BLANCA/ROSADO CASE: 6 BOTTLES EACH:

$ 17

$ 204

SMOOTH, DRY, EASYDRINKING WINES

Garnacha Tinta

Until recently, Navarra was mainly known for its deep-hued, bright-fruited Garnacha rosado wines, and it is still a style that the region does very well. This is straightforward rosé with a mix of candied and tangier, and just-ripe, red fruit with citrussy undertones on the palate. Smooth, dry and rounded. 2025-2026–jb 13% Candied red berries, red apple Rhubarb, raspberry, lemon, [1.60] As a bebida aperitivo

FLOR DE UNX GARNACHA BLANCA, DO NAVARRA, 2024

Garnacha Blanca

The Grenache, or Garnacha, grape has undergone many mutations over the course of its history, resulting in the emergence of a family of Garnacha grapes capable of making delicious white, rosé and red wines.

This Garnacha Blanca is a quintessential crisp, light, unoaked white wine for everyday drinking: a good sipper while chopping the dinner veg and listening to a favourite tune or two. 2025-2027–jb 12.5% Lemon, apple, apricot Lemon, lime, grapefruit, apricot, [1.80] Pan-fried sole with herbed citrus sauce

18

CELLAR 324 — CANADA

EVERYDAY WINES WINES TO SAVOUR ANY DAY OF THE WEEK

5467

FLOR DE UNX GARNACHA, DO NAVARRA, 2023

Garnacha Tinta

$ 17

5458

MONTBLANC 362 MACABEU/ CHARDONNAY, D.O. CATALUNYA, 2024

Macabeo, Chardonnay

$ 204

The bright flavours and smooth, supple charm of this unoaked red Garnacha are hard to resist. Medium in body with lots of tangy dark fruit and pleasing hints of Earl Grey tea, this is a red to chill and serve with simple, everyday fare. A great Taco Tuesday choice (if you keep the spice low). 2025-2028–jb

$ 20

$ 240

Impressive range of mouthwatering primary aromas including succulent peach, nectarine, bright honeysuckle, and pear. The palate leads with a broad lick of ripe orchard fruits (apricot & yellow apple) plus honeydew melon and the hint of acacia flower. The finish is discreet but long and very refreshing.

2025–2027–mp

5459

MONTBLANC 362 TEMPRANILLO/ CABERNET SAUVIGNON, D.O. CATALUNYA, 2024

Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon

$ 20

$ 240

This Montblanc 362 bottling marries Tempranillo with Cabernet Sauvignon.

Youthful aromas of cooked dark fruits leap from the glass. The palate is brisk and firm with a lean mid-palate and ripe, chewy tannins. Tobacco and dried herbal notes linger on the warming finish. Drink now or over the next few years. 2025-2029–jb 13.5%

12.5%

14%

Black cherry, baked plum, brambly

Peach, nectarine, honeysuckle, pear

Grape jelly, violet, black cherry

Raspberry, black cherry, bergamot

Apricot, yellow apple, melon, acacia flower, [1.50]

Cassis, black cherry, hint tobacco, dried herbs

Carne asada tacos

Pork tenderloin with apricot glaze

Paella

— SPAIN EVERYDAY WINES

19

5468

HACIENDA ALBAE SYRAH AND CABERNET SAUVIGNON CASE 6 BOTTLES EACH

$ 20

$ 240

This case offers two single varietal expressions from IGP Castilla in La Mancha, the heartland of Spain and the wine region responsible for a large part of the country’s output. While, naturally, most of that production is entry-level and value wines, here are two examples revealing that the region is capable of much more than “cheap-and-cheerful,” if the wine is made with a quality focus in mind.

NEW

HACIENDA ALBAE SYRAH, IGP CASTILLA, 2021

14.5% Espresso, tar, black olive, prune Sugared prune, chocolate

Syrah

Manchego cheese

Night-harvested and aged six months in barriques. A deep purple, opaque appearance, there are medium-intensity elements of espresso, tar, black olive and prune on the nose.

With a soft but adequate acidity, the palate is dry with a medium-minus extract, mediumminus loose-textured tannins, a medium-minus body and flavours of sugared prune and chocolate with a rapid fade. 2025-2026–ir NEW

HACIENDA ALBAE CABERNET SAUVIGNON, IGP CASTILLA, 2021

14.5% Cassis, cedar, cedar charcoal with tar, smoke, cream, vanilla Cassis reduction, cream, tar, cedar charcoal

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wild mushroom risotto

Harvested at night to keep the fruit fresher, vinified by individual plots, and then aged six months in new French oak. With a hint of garnet on the rim, it’s black-purple, opaque in the glass. The nose offers well-typed medium-intensity Cab aromas of cassis, cedar, cedar charcoal with tar, smoke, cream and vanilla from oak. Dry with a medium acidity, the palate displays a medium-plus extract, high fine powdery-textured tannins, a full body, lovely length and a fruit intensity of cassis reduction, cream, tar and cedar charcoal with a medium-plus finish. 2025-2028–ir

20

CELLAR 324 — CANADA

EVERYDAY WINES

NEW

WINES TO SAVOUR ANY DAY OF THE WEEK

HACIENDA ALBAE TEMPRANILLO, IGP CASTILLA, 2021

Tempranillo

This Tempranillo cuvée has a marginally more subtle oak imprint with a rich, ripe-fruited character. Notes of stewed cherry and plum are lifted by fresh acidity and minty, balsamic notes. Finishes with lingering fruit, hints of oak spice and medium-weight chalky tannins. Easypairing red wine for subtly spiced dishes.

2025-2028–jb 14% Red plum, macerated cherry, oak spice Red plum, cherry, menthol, toasty oak Mild lamb curry

NEW

ALBAE ESENCIA, IGP CASTILLA, 2023

Tempranillo

5469 The Esencia cuvée from Hacienda Albae epitomizes the sun-drenched yet refreshing character of Castilla-laMancha Tempranillo-based reds. Medium bodied and quite broad on the palate with brisk acidity, chalky tannins and soft plummy fruit. Overt woody, caramel, oak-spice nuances linger on the finish.

2025-2028– jb 14% Spiced red plum, cherry, woody Cassis, plum, caramel, toasty oak Croquetas de Jamón Serrano

HACIENDA ALBAE TEMPRANILLO CASE - 6 BOTTLES EACH: ALBAE ESENCIA AND ALBAE TEMPRANILLO

$ 20

$ 240

Hacienda Albae produces generous, fruit-forward, approachable wines in the warm Castilla-la-Mancha region, south of Madrid. This mixed case offers Tempranillo lovers the opportunity to compare two different interpretations of the grape: one spicier and more overtly oaked; the other slightly fresher and softer.

Both wines are highly versatile for good pairings, from lighter everyday fare to heartier dishes.

photo — Nicola Thornton, CEO and Founder of Spanish Palate, with Hacienda Albae's winemaker Adrian de Pablo (left).

— SPAIN EVERYDAY WINES

21

5470

BOTAS DE BARRO, VERDEJO, DO RUEDA, 2023

Verdejo

$ 26

$ 156

From old, dry-farmed bush vines, this has a medium lemon-yellow hue and a mediumintensity, floral and lifted nose featuring mimosa, quince preserve, Asian pear, nettle, papaya and guava. Dry, the palate is mediumsized: acidity, extract, texture and body, with a nice length, a coating presence and pretty, well-enunciated flavours of quince preserve, golden raisins, mimosa, papaya and guava preceding a medium-plus finish. A really nicely made Rueda. 2025-2026–ir 13% Mimosa, quince preserve, Asian pear, nettle, papaya, guava Quince preserve, golden raisins, mimosa, papaya, guava, [1.00] Crispy mesclun mix salad with toasted nuts and macerated fruit garnish

NEW

5471

BOTAS DE BARRO TINTA DE TORO ROSÉ, DO TORO, 2024

Tempranillo

$ 25

$ 150

A charming, uncomplicated rosé for easy drinking. Attractive red berry, lactic and leafy aromas feature on the nose. The palate is ample and rounded with a plush texture.

Finishes with refreshing, lifted acidity. A good, straightforward patio wine for spring and summer gatherings. 2025-2026–jb 13% Raspberries and cream, red currant, leafy Red currant, strawberry, raspberry, [1.00] As an aperitivo on a spring patio

22

CELLAR 324 — CANADA

DISCOVER CASA NICOLA IN TORO – OPIMIAN MEMBERS WHO VISIT WILL RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY TASTING!

5472

BOTAS DE BARRO TINTA DE TORO, DO TORO, 2023

Tinta de Toro

$ 26

$ 156

Tempranillo red wines from the Toro region are often bold and robust in style. This is a good example for everyday drinking.

Subtle dark fruit and forest floor notes on the nose, lead into tangy red and dark fruit flavours on the palate. A full-bodied red, with moderate concentration, and lively acidity. Best served with food to balance the tannic finish. 2025-2029–jb

14% Plum, kirsch, balsamic notes Red currant, dark plum, licorice, herbal Cochinillo Asado (roast suckling pig)

5473

BOTAS DE BARRO, TEMPRANILLO, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2023

Tempranillo

$ 30

$ 180

The Botas de Barro Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero is made from century-old bush vines, grown on non-irrigated sandy soils. The result is a full-bodied, smooth red wine with sweet-scented blue and black fruit and layers of spice. A well structured, moderately complex red with subtle meaty, savoury flavours. 2025-2032–ir 14.5% Blueberry, black cherry, licorice, baking spice Raspberry, plum, cocoa, meaty/savoury hints A selection of jamón

— SPAIN SPANISH PALATE

23

NEW

SPAIN

5474

Bodegas Aradón

MOMENTO DE ARADÓN, DOCA. RIOJA, 2022

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano

$ 32

LOGROÑO

$ 192

The “Momento de Aradón” is a full-bodied, yet quite lithe and finely textured Rioja.

While the nose is subdued at present, vivid red and dark fruit flavours mingle with refreshing herbal hints on the palate.

Finishes firm with fine, chiselled tannins and subtle hints of oak. 2025-2032–jb

Since 1957, the vinegrowers of Alcanadre have honoured the terroir of "Aradón."

The name was that of a former hamlet, long since vanished, that was prized for its high-quality vineyards. The area, located 36 kilometres east of Logroño, has steep slopes of calcareous clay soils, while the climate blends Mediterranean warmth with Atlantic freshness, producing lively red and white Rioja wines.

14.5% Rhubarb, plum, baking spice, cedar Tangy red and dark fruit, subtly herbal

LEARN MORE ABOUT BODEGAS ARADÓN

Rigatoni with sundried tomato sauce

5475

ARADÓN RESERVA, DOCA. RIOJA, 2017

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo

$ 45

$ 270

The Reserva 2017 from Bodegas Aradón is drinking beautifully with its finely articulated tannic structure, its taut, refreshing palate and harmonious toasted oak nuances.

Intense aromas of baked and dried fruit are lifted by more lively, minty nuances on the nose and tangy red currant notes on the palate. Long and very flavourful. Well worth its premium price. 2025-2035–jb 14.5% Baked plum, dried blueberry, menthol, dark chocolate Ripe dark fruit, red currant, cocoa, hint spice Devil’s food chocolate cake with dark-roast coffee

24

CELLAR 324 — CANADA

The hot, dry Toro region is located along the Duero River in Castilla

y León. It is prized for its intense, tannic, full-bodied Tinta de Toro (also known as Tempranillo). This old-vine mixed case is great for lovers of bold red wines: the 4 Rosas Negras, made from 60-year-old vines, is aged for four months in American and French oak; the 8 Rosas, from century-old vines, matures for eight months in the same vessels.

4 ROSAS NEGRAS, ANCIENT VINES, DO TORO, 2023

8 ROSAS NEGRAS, ANCIENT VINES, DO TORO, 2022

5477

ROSAS NEGRAS CASE 3 BOTTLES EACH: 4 ROSAS NEGRAS AND 8 ROSAS NEGRAS

$ 32

$ 192

Tinta de Toro

Tinta de Toro

The 4 Rosas Negras is full-bodied, taut and refreshing with intense floral, dark fruit and mineral aromas on the nose. The palate has both red and dark fruit in a tangy, lifted style. Not quite as tannic as the 8 Rosas, though still quite structured with a chewy edge and refreshing herbal bitters. Drinking well now. 2025-2029–jb

The 8 Rosas Negras is a full-throttle wine, inky dark in colour, with a powerful, tightly knit palate profile. For such a big wine, the aromas are surprisingly delicate – very floral, with ripe and dried fruit, and bright peppermint hints. Highly tannic, grippy, and still very youthful. Needs a few more years to soften. 2027-2032–jb

15%

15%

Floral, plum, cassis, wet stone

Cassis, fig, lavender, graphite

Tangy red and dark fruit, subtly bitter herbs

Cassis, mocha, fig, baking spice

Grilled vegetables on cheesy polenta

Beef Bourguignon

— SPAIN SPANISH PALATE

25

SPAIN

Spanish Treasures: High-Scoring Wines While it did – and still – sparks many arguments for and against, the 100-point wine scoring system is here to stay. Some feel it oversimplifies the wine, stripping it of a nuance that a full note offers, but few could argue that it is a concept that consumers were able to grasp easily. Several other scales have been in use for years: Three Glasses, Five Stars, a 20-point scale; however, the 100-point system certainly leapfrogged the rest in popularity thanks to relatability and ease of use, providing a common denominator. But whatever scoring system is used, the bottom line for wine enthusiasts is that the highestscoring wines should, and would, be paid close attention to. Whether something is precisely 92 or 95 points is less important than the mere fact that someone with at least some experience evaluating wine deemed a bottle to represent top quality and typicity for a grape and/or region within the set of its peers. However, whether that wine appeals to one’s individual palate is another matter altogether.

SPANISH REDS: BOLD FLAVOURS, EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY

NEW

5478

SEÑORÍO DE SARRÍA VENDIMIA SELECCIONADA, DO NAVARRA, 2019

Cabernet Sauvignon, Graciano

$ 46

$ 276

The Navarra region, to the northeast of Rioja, was long overshadowed by its more famous neighbour: this is no longer the case. Excellent reds, like this fine Cabernet Sauvignon-Graciano blend, are becoming the norm. The 2019 vintage is a commanding wine with highly complex aromas and a rich, concentrated palate. Nice balance of fresh and developed flavours. A great buy for the price. 2025-2030–jb

LEARN MORE ABOUT VALREINAS

14.5% Ripe red cherry, mint, leather, subtly floral

LEARN MORE ABOUT SENORIO DE SARRIA

26

CELLAR 324 — CANADA

Dark fruit, leather, truffle, cedar Mushroom-stuffed roast quail

NEW

5479

NEW

SEÑORÍO DE SARRÍA RESERVA ESPECIAL, DO NAVARRA, 2019

Cabernet Sauvignon, Graciano

$ 46

$ 276

The Reserva Especial is a riper, more darkfruited offering from Señorío de Sarría. It needs a little more time to reveal its full array of aromas and flavours but is highly complex, with layers of rich fruit and wellintegrated oak. A very attractive red with a great balance of power and freshness, and tannic grip. 2025-2030–jb

5480

NEW

VALREINAS ROBLE, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2023

Tempranillo

$ 46

VALREINAS CRIANZA, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2022

Tempranillo

$ 276

The Valreinas Roble 2023 is a juicy, brightfruited Ribera del Duero. Pretty floral, brambly notes feature on the nose. The palate has quite a lot of depth and richness, balanced by brisk acidity and then leading to very polished, sleek tannins on the finish.

A youthful, charming wine with subtle oak spice. 2025-2033–jb

14.5%

5481

$ 54

$ 324

The Valreinas Crianza is aged for a year in a mix of French and American oak barrels, as compared to just four months for the Roble cuvée. This gives a firmer, more structured style of Ribera, though still pleasantly floral and bright fruited. The palate has a weighty, firm, fresh character with slightly chewy tannins. Decant for half an hour before serving to help the wine open. 2025-2035–jb

14.5%

14.5%

Black cherry jam, plum, dried blueberry, tobacco

Violet, blackberry, plum, brambly undertones

Violet, blackberry, plum, brambly undertones

Ripe dark fruit, prune, balsamic notes

Dark chocolate, red and dark tangy fruit, dried herbs

Dark chocolate, red and dark tangy fruit, dried herbs

Reverse-seared ribeye roast with caramelized root veg

Charcoal-grilled espetos sardines drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon

Grilled tofu with green-sauce marinade

— SPAIN SPANISH TREASURES: HIGH-SCORING WINES

27

SPAIN 5482

Traslanzas

Verdejo, Albillo

CIGALES

$ 32

Traslanzas was founded by Carlos and Maria, a dynamic husband-and-wife team with deep winemaking roots. Located in Cigales, within Castilla y León (northwest Spain) and a historic yet lesser-known DOP region, Traslanzas specializes in wines made from old Tempranillo vines. The winery combines Carlos’s lifelong, local viticultural experience with Maria’s winemaking expertise from nearby Ribera del Duero to produce ripe powerful wines.

LEARN MORE ABOUT TRASLANZAS

TRASLANZAS VERDEJO & ALBILLO, DOP CIGALES, 2023

$ 192

13% Toasty, coconut, vanilla, lemon curd Lemon, apricot, coconut, vanilla, [2.00] Pisto Manchego ratatouille

Albillo is a lesser-known Spanish white wine grape: it is used in blends to bring body and viscosity, something it does well here, blended with Verdejo, a popular variety with a Sauvignon Blanclike character. This cuvée is for fans of rich, overtly oaky white wines: the oak-derived notes of coconut and vanilla are joined by zesty citrus on the nose and palate. Creamy in texture and smooth through the finish. 2027-3031–jb

5483

TRES CUESTAS, DOP CIGALES, 2023

Tempranillo

$ 39

$ 234

Tres cuestas means “three slopes” in English, referring to Translanzas’ hillside vineyards which increase sun exposure on the Tempranillo vines. The 2023 has an appealing sweet-fruited character, well balanced by lively acidity and a moderately firm structure. The oak is discreet here, bringing subtle notes of cedar and supporting, without overpowering, the palate. 2025-2030–jb 14% Red licorice, plum, cassis Red fruit, dark chocolate, exotic spice Grilled veal chops with spiced tomato salsa

28

CELLAR 324 — CANADA

photo — Husband and wife Carlos González and Maria Pinacho during the harvest at Trazlanzas.

SPAIN

La Conreria d´Scala Dei PRIORAT La Conreria d’Scala Dei winery, based in the hamlet of Escaladei in Priorat, was launched in 1997 by winemaker Jordi Vidal and two of his friends. The name of their village and their winery refers to the priory responsible for Priorat’s name, 12th century Carthusian monks’

5484

LA CONRERIA SELECCIÓ ESPECIAL MAR D'ESTELS, DO MONTSANT, VINYES ÚNIQUES, 2023

Garnacha, Carignan

$ 46

Cartoixa d’Scala Dei who, among other things, shaped the wine history of the region. Today, the winery has 50 hectares in Priorat DOQ including 18 hectares in Monsant DO which encircles Priorat and is possessed of some notable distinctions, not least of which are the soil types, as it shares its history, grapes and traditions.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LA CONRERIA D´SCALA DEI

5485

LA CONRERIA D'SCALA DEI NONA, DOQ PRIORAT, 2022

Garnacha, Carignan, Merlot, Syrah

$ 276

The wine is black-purple, opaque in the glass. The nose offers medium-intensity aromas of blueberry and mulberry preserve, flint, slate, ink, devilled egg, chives and onion jam. The palate is dry with a medium acidity, a medium extract, medium finetextured tannins, a medium body and lovely length and flavours of blueberry and mulberry preserve, slate, chives and onion jam, closing with a medium-plus finish.

2025-2028–ir

$ 66

$ 198

Priorat, following the coast southwest from Barcelona, is a revered vineyard region for Grenache and Carignan blends.

Its high altitude, rugged slopes and unique slate soils contribute to the production of potent, full-bodied wines. This intense, perfumed red wine has a high-toned, somewhat tartfruited character on the palate that gives a lot of character but may be a little sharp for some.

2025-2032–jb

13.5%

14.5%

5486

LA CONRERIA D'SCALA DEI LES BRUGUERES NEGRE, DOQ PRIORAT, 2022

Garnacha, Syrah

$ 82

$ 246

The “Les Brugueres” cuvée is a blend of Garnacha (Grenache), which brings fruity intensity, and Syrah which contributes structure and peppery spice. The result is very harmonious with a ripe black and blue fruit profile and a weighty, dense palate balancing high acidity. Finishes with attractive savoury hints and lingering mocha notes. A powerful yet quite elegant wine to serve with food.

2025-2035–jb

14%

Blueberry and mulberry preserve, flint, slate, ink, devilled egg, chives, onion jam

Highly floral, blackberry, aged balsamic vinegar

Candied cassis, black pepper, violet, plum

Blueberry and mulberry preserve, slate, chives, onion jam

Tart, tangy dark fruit, baking spice

Black and blue fruit, savoury, mocha hints

Smoked turkey legs with cranberry sauce

Grilled pork sausages with smoked paprika

Penne with roasted red peppers, paprika and chorizo

— SPAIN LA CONRERIA D´SCALA DEI

29

LA GARNACHA PROMETIDA DE ARADÓN, DOCA. RIOJA La Garnacha Prometida (“the promised Grenache”) from Bodegas Aradón is a truly special Rioja. While Tempranillo is generally the region’s star grape, this cuvée is produced exclusively from Grenache. And not just any Grenache – a selection of four tiny plots of over 85-year-old bush vines grown on clay-limestone soils. These aged vines yield small crops of incredibly rich, flavourful fruit. Handcrafted with meticulous care, La Garnacha Prometida ferments in 500-litre French oak barrels and is aged for 14 months, with a portion maturing in a concrete egg-shaped tank. This results in a wine with exceptional depth, complexity and finesse.

5476

LA GARNACHA PROMETIDA DE ARADÓN, DOCA. RIOJA, 2019

Garnacha

$ 117

30

CELLAR 324 — CANADA

$ 351

The 2019 growing season was rated “excellent” by Rioja’s Regulatory Council due to the warm summer, balanced rainfall and fine harvest conditions. The year’s best wines have been praised by critics for their exceptional ageing potential, and this is the case here. The 2019 La Garnacha Prometida is full-bodied, firm and richly textured with bold, yet ripe, tannins. A big wine yet really bright and juicy with well-integrated oak and lingering fruit. 2025-2040–jb

14.5% Candied cassis, black pepper, violet, plum Black and blue fruit, savoury, mocha hints Grilled sirloin with chimichurri sauce

COLLECTOR’S CORNER

RARE WINES TO ENHANCE YOUR CELLAR

5487

EL ALMA DE GILDO, DO TORO, 2021

Tinta de Toro

$ 143

$ 286

The 2021 vintage of El Alma de Gildo is an unabashedly big wine, though never heavy or ponderous. The aromatic mix of fresh and dried fruit, with floral and oaked undertones, is harmonious. The firm, full-bodied palate has quite a polished feel to it with great depth of flavour and a long, layered finish.

Still very youthful, with imposing tannins.

Needs a few years to soften and reveal its full potential. 2027-2037–jb

SPANISH PALATE FOUNDER NICOLA THORNTON IS THE WINEMAKER BEHIND EL ALMA DE GILDO.

EL ALMA DE GILDO, DO TORO El Alma de Gildo is a tribute to Hermenegildo García, a revered Toro viticulturist who recently turned 100. Named "The Soul of Gildo," this wine embodies years of expertise and passion for Toro’s terroir and fine winemaking potential.

Launched in 2020, it blends five unique vineyard parcels, aged in 12 different types of oak, with the aim of creating a pure expression of Toro’s character. The packaging, with its intricate die-cut label and poetry by Gildo, mirrors the wine’s craftsmanship. Every detail reflects a commitment to creating the finest Toro wine, showcasing the soul and heritage of the region.

14.5% Ink, cassis, plum, fig, graphite, violet, cedar Cocoa, dried thyme, cassis, plum, savoury hints Braised lamb shoulder with roasted red peppers and lima beans

— CELLAR 324 COLLECTOR’S CORNER

31

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