White
Torres Waltraud Riesling, 1997/1998 (exclusive to Molloys Liquor Stores, £8.99). Planted in the coolness of the high Penedes, Riesling performs surprisingly well: this has super acidity to balance its ripe, slightly honeyed fruit.
Red
Marques de Monistrol Cabernet- Tempranillo, Penedes, 1997 (Superquinn, McCabes Merrion, Redmonds Ranelagh, O'Donovans Cork, Alvinos Athlone, many SuperValus and other outlets, £5.99-£6.49) Quite soft, spicy and extremely drinkable, with a nice bit of Spanish personality thanks to the Tempranillo and sweet American oak. Great value. Can Vendrell, Penedes, Albet I Noya 1997 (widely available, £6.99-£7.99) Remember this organic Bottle of the Week from January? It's the second label in an outstanding range of wines, made by a dedicated fourth-generation grower.
Torres Gran Sangre de Toro 1996 (widely available, usually about £8.99). Unmistakably from sunny Spain and definitely a winner - well worth the extra couple of pounds that set it above basic Sangre de Toro. See Bottle of the Week.
Gran Caus, Penedes, Can Rafols dels Caus, 1994/5 (Gourmet Gallery Rathmines, Don Angel D'Olier St, Patrick Egan Liscannor, Karwigs Wine Warehouse Carrigaline or direct from Approach Trade Ireland, tel 051-640164, fax 051 641580, usually about £16). From a topnotch small producer, this shows what Penedes can do with Bordeaux grapes Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot in roughly equal proportions. Subtle and very classy.
Cava
Segura Viudas Cava Brut Reserva (Oddbins, £9.99). Slightly biscuity overtones, with plenty of fruit and all the freshness you could hope for. Very pleasant fizz indeed.
Codorniu Cuvee Raventos Millennium Cava Brut (soon in leading off-licences, magnums only, £34.99) Named after Josep Raventos, the first man to make cava back in 1872, this 50 per cent Chardonnay blend is zesty and creamy with a good, long finish.
Northern Note
Torres wines and Segura Viudas Cavas have been a success story for 25 years at Direct Wine Shipments, Belfast. Tel 0801232-238700, fax 0801232-240202.