A Tour of Spain
Originally uploaded by lools.
Did you know that Spain has more land planted to grape vines than any other country? Or that Rioja is one of Spain's best known wine regions? And that goat's milk cheese is best paired with white wine? These were some of my learnings from a wine class cum charity that we attended last night with my friend, Prashant. This class was a great sampler of different Spanish wines and cheeses.
From the time I visited Andalucia four years ago for my honeymoon, my love for all things Spanish (and vegetarian, of course!) has been growing steadily. I've learnt Spanish over the years and am fairly decent at conversation now. I love tapas and try to serve it at every opportunity. And now I'm really into Spanish wine and cheese in a big way. So this charity event was a great way to contribute to a good cause while learning something new about a subject close to my heart.
I was thrilled to discover a few delicious white and red wines and cheeses at the event yesterday that I'd like to recommend to you:
Txomin Etxanziz, Getariako Txakolina, Basque Region, Spain, 2003, $15 - a bit of a mouthful to say but a lovely white wine that actually tastes a bit like champagne. A perfect drink with appetizers, especially in the summer.
Bodegas Lan, Crianza, Rioja, Spain, 1999, $10 - a young red wine full of fruit. Goes well with pasta or ratatouille.
Urgelia - this creamy Spanish cheese is a member of the washed rind (a.k.a. stinky) cheese family, but it's mild and subtle and just delicious.
Zamorano - a wonderful cheese from Sheep's milk that is great for snacking and can be enjoyed with a glass of full-bodied wine.
All these wines and cheeses are moderately priced and easily available at upscale grocery stores. The best way to locate wines online is Wine Searcher. Check it out!
At the very least, I hope I've inspired you to try out a new Spanish wine or cheese the next time you're at the store.
posted by lulu at 6:36 PM
1 Comments:
that was a very informative posting on tasting wine and cheese.lulu,you are not only a spanishbuff but also a wine and cheese afficianado.your description is so graphic that it is mouthwatering.now i realise why you wanted me to attend the wine tasting ceremony in san fransisco last june though australian wine was being showcased in that function.i am also like you a wine lover and do not generally miss any wine and cheese party.both cheese and red wine are beneficial for health which makes their consumption more attractive.
the french are well known for their cheese eating and wine drinking and yet are able to keep their bodies lean.is it the magic of wine and cheese working?.the grapevine has something else to say.that is a different story.
gs
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