April Premier Crew 2025

New Classics of Spain

Spain is a wine lover’s dream—where ancient traditions meet exciting innovation. As the third-largest wine-producing country in the world (behind Italy and France), Spain boasts an incredible diversity of styles, regions, and grape varieties. With over 70 Denominaciones de Origen (DOs), the Spanish equivalent of appellations, there’s something for every palate—from crisp whites and bold reds to world-class sparkling wines.

Wine has been a part of Spain’s culture for over 3,000 years, dating back to the Phoenicians, who planted vines along the southern coast. The Romans expanded viticulture across the Iberian Peninsula, but it was during the Middle Ages that monastic orders refined winemaking techniques. Fast forward to the 19th century, and Spain’s wine industry gained momentum when French winemakers, fleeing phylloxera in Bordeaux, brought their expertise to Rioja. Today, Spain continues to blend old-world charm with modern techniques, producing wines that balance tradition and innovation. For this month’s Premier Cru wine club, we are going to explore the classics, showcasing diversity of style and killer value!

Llopart Cava Rose Brut Reserva 2021

If you’re in the mood for bubbles, Cava is where it’s at. Made primarily in Catalonia, near Barcelona, Cava is Spain’s answer to Champagne. Produced using the traditional method (the same as Champagne), Cava undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, giving it those signature fine bubbles. The main grape varieties are Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada, though Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are sometimes used. Cava offers a wide range of styles, from crisp and fruity to rich and toasty, and usually at a fraction of the price of its French counterpart.

The 2021 Llopart Rose over delivers on quality with delicate aromas of wild strawberries, raspberries, and red currants, with subtle floral hints of rose petals and a touch of citrus zest. Bright and refreshing, with lively acidity that balances the juicy red berry flavors. Notes of pomegranate and cranberry unfold, with a crisp, mineral-driven finish and a hint of brioche from the extended lees aging. Clean, elegant, and persistent, leaving a refreshing impression of red fruit and subtle toastiness that will keep you coming back for more!

Food Pairing: Perfect with smoked salmon, tuna tartare, grilled shrimp, or paella. Also pairs beautifully with charcuterie, creamy cheeses, or even berry-based desserts. Serve ice cold and enjoy all spring!

Pazo Torre Penelas Pazo das Bruxas Albarino DO Rias Baixas 2023

Rías Baixas (REE-ahs BYE-shahs) is a cool, coastal region in Galicia, northwest Spain. This area is famous for its Albariño, a bright, aromatic white wine bursting with citrus, peach, and saline minerality. Thanks to the Atlantic influence, Albariño wines are crisp, refreshing, and perfect for seafood. Think of them as Spain’s answer to Sauvignon Blanc, but with a little more elegance and texture.

The 2023 Pazo das Bruxas (BRU-shahs) is fresh and vibrant, with aromas of ripe citrus—lemon, lime, and tangerine—alongside hints of green apple, white peach, and a touch of honeysuckle. Crisp and lively, with mouthwatering acidity that highlights the citrus and orchard fruit flavors. A hint of tropical pineapple emerges mid-palate, balanced by a subtle saline minerality. The texture is smooth and refreshing, with a clean, zesty finish.

Food Pairing: Perfect with fresh oysters, grilled prawns, ceviche, or sushi. Also pairs beautifully with light seafood pasta, citrusy salads, and soft cheeses like goat cheese or burrata. Serve well chilled.

Bodegas y Vinedos Artuke Rioja 2023

If you’ve had any Spanish wine, it’s most likely Rioja. Located in northern Spain along the Ebro River, Rioja is known for its age-worthy reds made primarily from Tempranillo. These wines often showcase flavors of ripe red fruit, vanilla, and spice, thanks to extensive oak aging. Traditionally, Rioja is classified by oak aging categories joven, crianza, reserva, and gran reserva. However, today many young producers are opting for fresher, less oak driven styles.

The 2023 Artuke Rioja is a friendly and approachable red, perfect for any night of the week! Fresh and inviting, with aromas of ripe red cherries, raspberries, and wild strawberries. Subtle floral notes of violets and rose petals mingle with hints of crushed herbs, sweet spice, and a touch of earthiness. Artuke is juicy and energetic on the palate, with a medium body and lively acidity that enhances the bright red fruit flavors. Silky tannins provide a smooth texture, while notes of red currant, pomegranate, and a hint of licorice add complexity. A touch of minerality and a whisper of spice lead to a clean, refreshing finish.

Food Pairing: A versatile food wine—pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, roasted chicken, charcuterie, and tapas. It also complements mushroom dishes, vegetable paella, and mild cheeses. Serve lightly chilled for a refreshing twist!