Sometimes we make pour decisions…don’t make one on Thursday, November 9 we can be forgiven for leaving no wine behind as we celebrate International Tempranillo Day.
This black grape is native to Spain and used to make full-bodied red wines – its name comes from the Spanish word ‘temprano’, which means early. This is a reference to the fact that Tempranillo grapes ripen earlier than most other grapes in Spain.
Tempranillo is very food-friendly, pairing well with grilled meat, tacos, burritos and other dishes with a tomato base; wines made from this grape have cherry, plum and dried fig aromas and flavour.
Haven’t tried a glass of this drop? Here are three of our recommended Tempranillos to imbibe, because after all it’s wine o’clock somewhere:
Situated on the famed Cambrian-era soils of Heathcote, Sanguine Estate on Shurans Lane is an ideal location to soak up scenic views and enjoy a taste of unspoilt flavours. Established in 1996 and producing the first vintage in 2000, Sanguine’s family-run award-winning boutique winery aptly reflects a passion for natural winemaking, taking place within flourishing surrounds.
More than 50 acres of thriving vines are the backbone behind Sanguine’s range, lovingly crafted into memorable drops including the deep ruby red, vibrant and youthful 2021 Estate Tempranillo with a delicate mix of ripe berries, blackberry and cherry to the fore, along with an alluring dried herb complexity. This wine definitely benefits from decanting for two hours prior to drinking.
Established for more than a decade and a leader in new-emerging varieties, ArtWine Estate’s award-winning wines are best enjoyed at the cellar door tucked into the Adelaide Hills along Bird In Hand Road in Woodside. Those who visit can admire views across sweeping landscapes all year round from the comfort of an architecturally designed venue, comprising of a fully enclosed terrace and apex ceilings, which provide a light and airy feel.
Stop in for a tasting or order online to sample the Hola Tempranillo – 2022, which shows deliciously juicy red and dark berries with a hint of spice. The addition of Graciano gives a full mouth flavour with a burst of Morello cherries and a long back palate; this wine can be slightly chilled in warmer months, otherwise, try to serve it at a temperature of 16 C-18 C.
At the forefront of Western Australia’s tourism sector since the 1990s, Sandalford Wines on West Swan Road in Caversham is a legacy of wine and cuisine – reimagined. One of Australia’s oldest family-owned winemakers, Sandalford is truly for the wine enthusiast with a unique appreciation tour on suspended walkways through the operational winery providing a behind-the-scenes view.
Sandalford’s 2022 1840 Tempranillo is deep cherry red in colour with garnet hues, while on the nose it displays bright raspberry and black cherry fruits with dried tomato, red pepper and leather nuances entwined with subtle savoury spices. This is a wine well suited to a range of food and pairs perfectly with rich, bold-flavoured dishes.
