El Guardian, Rioja Crianza 2011

Our latest selection in another Spanish rioja. I like trying different varieties from different countries but sometimes you just need to go to your comfort zone, and tempranillo wines are in my wheelhouse. 

I selected this wine not based on any recommendations or inside information. It is simply because I wanted a reasonably priced rioja and I kind of liked the label. 

Wine: El Guardian Rioja Crianza

Location: Spain

Alcohol content: 12.5%

Sugar content: 2g/L

Price: $13.95

Vintages number: 429670

El Guardian rioja is a medium-bodied wine, ruby red in colour with pleasant berry fragrances. The flavours are extremely mild.  You can taste slight strawberry and leather. The wine is balanced and smooth with a nice finish. Because the flavour profile is very neutral, this wine is extremely versatile and could be paired with many different meats and cheeses or enjoyed on its own.  I usually prefer slightly stronger fruit flavours but this wine is pleasant and I would drink it again.

Recommendation: Uncork
Rating:                  7.5 out of 10

Beronia, Rioja, Tempranillo Elaboracion Especial

At long last I am back with another review.  This one is a dry Rioja from Spain.  

Wine: Beronia Rioja Tempranillo Elaboracion Especial

Location: Spain

Sugar content: 6g/L

Price:$15.95

Vintages number: 426981

Is it possible for a full-bodies wine to have lighter delicate flavours? This is a question I am wrestling with. The LCBO describes this wine as full-bodied and smooth. While it is full-bodied for a wine made with Tempranillo grapes, I would describe it as medium-bodied with light fruity flavours. Strawberry, vanilla and mild tannins.  It is balanced and smooth with a clean finish. It is dry, but not like the Plantaze Vranac, despite only a slight difference in sugar content.  While the Vranac was so dry it felt like the moisture was being sucked out of the back of my throat, the Tempranillo is pleasant and refreshing. I definitely recommend drinking this wine on it's own, unlike the Vranac which is best paired with food.  

Fruity, fresh, balanced, clean, I definitely recommend this wine and hope to have it again soon.

Recommendation:  Uncork

Rating:  8.5 out of 10