Oscar Garcia Moncada’s Spanish Wine Picks

Our Professional Review 

One of the most classic and historic producers in all of Rioja. Medium-bodied with chew tannins with ripe red fruit flavors. Beautiful finish with a lively acidity.
- Oscar Garcia, Wine Buyer, 67wine

Winemaker Description - Vintage 2020

Characterized by a long growing cycle and perfect phenolic ripening. It produced wines with great aromatic intensity and fruit concentration, well-balanced between alcohol and acidity, and highly suitable for long aging.
grapes

100% Tempranillo from our own vineyards in Rodezno and Labastoda, with an average vine age of 40 years.

Manual harvesting in boxes, with cluster selection in the vineyards. The grapes are transported refrigerated to the winery to maintain their integrity. After rigorous quality control on optical sorting tables, alcoholic and malolactic fermentation occur naturally. Two years of aging in our own American oak barrels (new the first year and four-year-old barrels the second). We perform four traditional rackings by candlelight, from barrel to barrel. Bottled in June 2023.

Intense and brilliant garnet color with a vivid ruby rim. On the nose, it stands out for its high intensity, with notes of red fruits—raspberries, wild strawberries, and redcurrants— wrapped in a marked balsamic aroma of caramel, vanilla, toffee, and roasted coffee. On the palate, it is long, balanced, and fresh, with fine and silky tannins. A long finish, where the initial balsamic and fresh red fruit aromas characteristic of Viña Alberdi reappear.

Viña Alberdi is characterised by a notable food-pairing versatility. It is an ideal companion to appetisers, snacks and barbecues, perfect with rice, pastas and stews, and great with lightly-grilled meat and fish.

Expert Review - Vintage 2020

Luis Gutierrez writes:  The younger wine here is the 2020 Viña Alberdi, a versatile version of the Haro reds. It was produced with Tempranillo fermented in stainless steel and matured in American oak barrels for two years (it's sold as Reserva in international markets and Crianza in Spain). It has 14% alcohol with a pH of 3.6 and five grams of acidity. It has a classical nose of ripe fruit, American oak and spices, the subtle notes of forest floor, still young. The palate is velvety and very balanced with polished tannins. Approachable but should also age.  Drinking 2024 to 2029.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 92

Zekun Shuai writes:  A classical, typical Rioja Alta red with elegant notes of vanilla, coconut, smoked spices and strawberries. Refined and suave, with fine tannins and a long, creamy finish. Juicy and elegant. Really approachable now, but give it two more years to get more mushroom complexity.  - James Suckling 93

Winemaker Description

Frank on the palate with tastes developed in the bottle. Good body. Smooth and silky, the carbonic content keeps it fresh and lively, providing a long finish. 

Expert Review

The Wine Enthusiast 87 Points by Michael Schachner | Clean white-fruit aromas include a note of pastry. This brut is tight and crisp on the palate, with flavors of green apple, lime and green herb that lead to a fresh finish. 

Winemaker Description 

A elaboration that starts from a cold maceration, fermentation at low temperature and subsequent aging on lees of 4 months that lead us to a Galician white wine of excellent expression.

After a selection, the grapes are despressed and a cold maceration of the grapes previously refrigerated are carried out. Once the macerator's bleeding to get the tear must, the rest is pressed very softly and slowly in a pneumatic press. its fermentation is in stainless steel tanks for approximately 60-70 days. After fermentation, it stays for 4 months with the fine lens in the stainless steel tank.

Bright straw yellow color of medium-high intensity. The aromas of bone fruit and white flowers predominate. It shows a powerful, balanced, complex and fresh mouth displaying an attractive harmony of flavors.

Pair very well with roasted zamburiña on truffled potato or steamed drinks and lime.

Winemaking process

Hand-harvested with fruit selection in the vineyard. Destemming and pre-fermentation maceration at low temperature for 6 hours. Fermentation in stainless steel below 20°C. Aged for 4 months on fine lees with weekly periodic rackings

Tasting Notes Attractive bright pale yellow color with a steely rim, fluid and regular legs. The nose is subtle and delicate, revealing varietal aromas of white flowers, white fruits, citrus, and aniseed notes. On the palate, it is rich and fresh with good balance, featuring vibrant acidity that leads to a very pleasant and prolonged bitter finish.

Winemaker Description 

Deep and brilliant crimson color. It is a very intense wine with a powerful yet delicate nose. It offers all the characteristics of its incredible complexity: noble wood, lightly spiced, with hints of vanilla and cocoa against a background of dark fruit, touches of licorice and woodland, giving this wine personality and elegance.

Very expressive on the palate, full-bodied and refined, with delicious flavors of berries laced with toasty notes. It's a very classy wine.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2019 Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Reserva (Vendimia Seleccionada) is a standout vintage for this historic estate. This specific "Selected Harvest" (Vendimia Seleccionada) release is crafted from 15–25-year-old vines in the premier Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa sub-regions.

Winemaker Description 

Mineral and fresh notes. Straw yellow color with greenish hues. On the nose it has aromas of reineta apple, citrus, apricot and toasted notes contributed by the aging on lees. In the mouth it has volume, is unctuous, saline, with restrained acidity and a subtle finish.

We suggest pairing the wine with appetizers, pasat with seafood, lightly cured cheeses and hake fish. We recommend a serving temperature of between 7 and 10ºC

Memo Summary Notes

Altos de Torona Albariño 2024 is a newly released, highly regarded white wine from the O Rosal subzone of Rías Baixas, Spain. This estate is unique for having the largest single vineyard in the region (94 hectares), where they practice sustainable viticulture among a rich biodiversity of over 160 species of flora and fauna.

The 2024 vintage has already begun picking up critical acclaim, notably receiving a Silver Medal at the 2025 International Wine Challenge.

The combination of ripeness and salinity makes it a world-class seafood wine:

• Seafood: Grilled scallops with lemon, steamed cockles, or hake stew.

• Fresh Fare: Fruity endive salad, sushi, or chicken salad with feta.

• Cheese: Pairs beautifully with semi-soft cheeses like Brie or tangy fresh goat cheese.

The Essence of Torona Heights

At the heart of the Rias Baixas region, Torona Heights is renowned for producing exquisite Albarino wines. The Altos de Torona Albarino 2024 captures the uniqueness of this terroir, showcasing vibrant citrus notes and a refreshing acidity. This white wine not only highlights the flavors of the area, but also offers an exceptional tasting experience. Its crisp profile is perfect for those who appreciate a refined and elegant wine.

Flavor Profile and Pairings

This Albarino from Torona Heights presents delightful aromas of green apples, peaches, and a hint of sea breeze. Because of its bright acidity, it pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes, light salads, and even spicy cuisine. Wine enthusiasts will find that the Altos de Torona provides a versatile option for both casual sipping and special occasions. So, whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, this wine is an excellent choice.

Why Choose Altos de Torona Albarino 2024?

Choosing Altos de Torona Albarino 2024 means embracing quality and tradition. The meticulous winemaking process respects the natural characteristics of the grapes, resulting in a wine that reflects the essence of its origin. Additionally, the sustainability efforts at Torona Heights ensure that each bottle you enjoy supports eco-friendly practices. This dedication not only enhances the quality of the wine, but also contributes to preserving the stunning landscapes of Rias Baixas.

Introduction to Albarino Wine

Albarino wine, especially the Altos de Torona variety, is known for its crisp and refreshing character. Sourced from the picturesque Rias Baixas region in Spain, this wine captivates the palate with its vibrant acidity and fruit-forward profile. When you take a sip, you can expect flavors of ripe peaches, green apples, and hints of citrus. Its balance and minerality make it an exceptional choice for any occasion.

Food Pairing with Altos de Torona

This Albarino wine is a fantastic partner for a variety of dishes, particularly seafood. Its bright acidity and fruitiness complement dishes like grilled shrimp, oysters, and fish tacos beautifully. Additionally, it pairs well with light salads and creamy cheeses, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, Altos de Torona Albarino can elevate your culinary choices.

The Ideal Serving Temperature

For the best experience, serve the Altos de Torona Albarino wine chilled, ideally between 45°F and 50°F. This temperature enhances its refreshing qualities while bringing out the complex aromas and flavors. Pour it into a white wine glass to allow the wine to breathe, so you can fully appreciate its character. Therefore, enjoy it on a sunny day or during a cozy evening with friends, and let this delightful wine make every moment special.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2014

The Wine Advocate 94 Points | I loved the nose of the 2014 Viña Bosconia Reserva, a red that sells at an incredible price for the quality, the problem is (like all their wines) finding it... They had to accelerate the harvest to avoid botrytis caused by the abundant rain during the harvest. This is a blend of 80% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacho and the remaining 5% Graciano and Mazuelo, fermented in old oak vats with their yeasts and matured in neutral American oak barrels for no less than five years. It's elegant and nuanced, developed but young for its age, with a seamless palate and very fine tannins, with energy and light. It has 13.5% alcohol, a pH of 3.3 and 6.7 grams of acidity, notable parameters of freshness. 80,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2022.

Vinous 94 Points | The 2014 Viña Bosconia is 80% Tempranillo with 10% Garnacha, 5% Graciano and 5% Mazuelo from the El Bosque vineyard in Haro, Rioja. Garnet in hue, it opens with cassis, cola and oak-driven aromas. The palate is youthful and smooth, with well-integrated tannins, black fruit and anisette at the finish. Still growing, it’ll develop greater complexity with more time in bottle.

Oscar Garcia Moncada, 67 Wine Buyer, writes: Ramon Canals Marta Violet Ecologic Penedès 2023 is the perfect wine to sip as we “Spring Forward”! Made from a blend of 60% Muscat, 20% Xarel·lo, and 20% Macabeu, sourced from Canals’ proprietary vineyards in the DO Penedès. Certified organic grapes enhance this wine’s purity and quality.

The nose bursts with aromas of white blossom flowers, jasmine, and stone fruit. The palate is clean and precise, offering flavors of green pears, citrus peel, and orange preserve. Refreshingly dry with a long finish, this wine, at 12% ABV, does not overwhelm the senses.

Ideal food pairings include fish crudos, tuna tartare, and slightly spicy Indian or Asian dishes.

Producer Description 

The white grape varieties Xarel.lo, Macabeu and Muscat from our Penedès vineyards are the base for the Marta Violet elaboration. It’s fresh, fruity and floral white wine. The violet bottle is the unique violet glass bottle in the world.

It presents a beautiful pale yellow color. Aroma: It’s fresh with fruity and floral notes.
Palate: It has a good balance with smooth palate and pleasant finish. Gastronomy: It’s recommended for aperitif, assorted salads, pasta, rice and fish dishes. Enjoy anytime of the day.