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- Published: 22 October 2011 22 October 2011
 Spain is producing so much decent wine these days that Rioja has a lot to compete with (to say nothing for the rest of the world!). One region that is famous for producing some of the best red wines in Spain is Ribera Del Duero. Many of the better wines from here literally make ones mouth water at the mere mention.After a trip down to Portobello Market this morning, dropping into Garcia's to pick up some ham, cheese, Padron peppers and other delights, we meandered back up (stopping for a Bratwurst) stopping at Jeroboams wine shop. The staff here are very helpful and when that it is the case, it is always wise to ask for tips. In this case the young guy in the shop pointed out the Erial 2008 and I departed with one bottle, a bottle of Pedro Ximenez Triana, Hidalgo and a bottle of Pazo San Mauro, 2010 from Alborino. Having decanted the Erial and putting out some fleshy cured jamon with aged Manchego cheese, I can honestly say I have a snack made in heaven. The wine is bursting with intense fruit: cherries, blackcurrant and black forest gateau. It is quite young but still it has a wonderful balance of freshness, tannin and acidity. It goes perfectly with the ham and cheese. The aged Manchego in particular is a perfect pairing. Alas, the rest of the bottle must wait for this evening. The sherry is to be poured over the vanilla ice-cream and the Alborino will open with seafood empanada. I bought all these wines from Jeroboams but look out for these regions in supermarkets and wine shops. Albarino is from the Rias Baixas (Pronounced Ree-ass bye-shass) and the Pedro Ximenez is from southern Spain around Jerez - often referred to as just PX - and is the sweetest of sherries that you can buy. Salut y buenas noches! |
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