Nocedal Reserva 2001, Rioja Alta; Val, Rosado 2006; and Nocedal Reserva 2001, Rioja Alta,
Nocedal Reserva 2001, Rioja Alta, 13.5%, €17.99Tempranillo is Spain's great grape. As a reserva wine, this very neat example has spent a minimum of 12 months in oak, which provides the vanilla cocoon for the rich and enticing black fruit. From: McCabes, Blackrock; McHughs, Kilbarrack and Malahide Rd; Deveneys, Dundrum and Rathmines; Redmonds, Ranelagh; Bin No 9, Clonskeagh; Vintry, Rathgar; Red Island Wines, Skerries; Sweeneys, Glasnevin; Jus De Vine, Portmarnock; Sheils, Dorset St; Cheese Pantry, Drumcondra; Fahys, Ballina.
Val, Rosado 2006, Cigales, 12.5%, €11.99Cigales, in northwest Spain, is making a splash with its Tempranillos, but is actually better known for its deep-coloured rosés made from the same grape, aka Tinto Fino. This attractive example (from an impressive and ambitious producer) has an aroma of soft summer fruit with a touch of tangerine in the mouth. From: Enowine, Monkstown and IFSC; Wicklow Wine Company.
Messias Selection 2004, Douro, 13.5%, €7.49In Portugal, Tempranillo is known as Tinta Roriz, which along with Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional and Tinta Barroca make up the blend for this seriously good-value wine packed with plum and blackberry fruit held in place by soft but firm tannins. Classy fare at a knockdown price. From: Molloys (branches)