1999 La Rioja Alta Vina Ardanza Reserva

For anyone who likes old world Rioja (earthy, spicy, great acidity and not all big fruit), the 1999 Rioja Reserva Vina Ardanza is definitely one to seek out. Plenty of old school Riojas can taste somewhat oxidized (sherry-like) but this one packs enough juicy fruit to make it an all around hit and wonderful with Spanish tapas of all kinds.

Tasted at Boqueria in New York City, everyone at the table found it unique and we thought it best described as elegant and very food friendly. The blend is 80% Tempranillo and 20% Grenache from 30 year old vines. La Rioja Alta is one of the leading producers in Rioja and, although they produce large quantities of wine, the focus is on premium quality as well as releasing wines when -- and only when -- they are ready to drink. All the wines are made in the traditional manner -- aged in American oak barrels, no filtration and extended aging in bottle before release. You can find the 1999 vintage at retail for $25 - $3o.

Incidentally, Boqueria (53 West 19th Street , btwn 5th and 6th Avenues) is a great spot with an authentically Barcelonian, casual vibe and great food, from tapas to larger plates.

Spanish Best Buy: 2003 Novellum

In an attempt to escape the blustery cold today, Vino Girl took cover in the first place that was open and (who would have thought?) ended up in a wine store. Le Du's Wines (600 Washington St. between Leroy and Morton) was an instant oasis from the wind and they just happened to be having a tasting of Spanish wines (bonus!). The wines ranged from a simple Ribera Del Duero Joven to a serious Priorat but the one that caught my attention was the 2003 Bodegas Rejadorada Novellum. One hundred percent Tinta de Toro (Tempranillo from the Toro region of Spain), the Novellum is a chocolatey, rich and juicy drinker with good grip. It is ready to drink today but this is one $20 wine that can improve with a few years in the cellar. It has the ripeness that you would expect from the hot 2003 vintage but with enough acidity to keep it firm and structured. Rarely do I walk out with a wine from a retail tasting but this one warmed me up and won me over. Give it a try.