Richmondborn Andrew Switzer is a keen ambassador for Spanish Wine.
Switzer is a wine agent for locally based Christopher Stewart Wines and Spirits which has the largest, most comprehensive Spanish wine portfolio of any agency in B.C.
"I didn't grow up with a wine background," confides Switzer. But a summer college job at a wine agency and a trip to the vineyards of Europe changed all that. For the past decade, he has worked for Christopher Stewart and "I get to spread the wine gospel. It's been an odyssey ever since!" Switzer suggests how to begin your Spanish wine odyssey.
"A great way to turn on the switch for Spanish wine is cava. Champagne is great if you want luxury, but if you want a nice glass of bubbly without spending an arm and a leg, buy cava." His recommendation: the Cristalino Cava. "It has delicious notes of citrus and toast; a clean wine and it's $12.99!" Cava is the Spanish term for sparkling wine made in the bottle like they do in Champagne, except they use local Spanish grapes. Like all quality sparkling wine, it is aged deep in limestone caves, hence the name "cava."
Switzer refers to the Cristalino as "dynamic and versatile." You can enjoy it with Sunday brunch, like eggs Benedict with fruit on the side. Or sip it with Brie or Camembert cheese. Why not savour it with oysters on the half shell, smoked salmon canapés, sushi, or summer salads with toasted almonds. Very Spanish, very versatile.
For his second pick, Switzer suggests a classic.
"If you want to buy affordable, world class wine, run, don't walk, to Rioja. You can't talk Spain without talking Rioja."
Rioja is a wine region in northern Spain. It makes whites and roses, but the red Riojas are what it's famous for. The 2010 Antano Crianza Rioja is the number one selling Rioja in the world, and a bargain at $12.99.
The Antano is aged in oak for one year to add a layer of complexity to the blend of four grapes, the main one being Tempranillo. Expect a bouquet and flavour of raspberry, strawberry and blackberry. Switzer explains
that the American oak brings butterscotch, vanilla and coconut to the fruit, while the French oak adds a little spiciness and toastiness.
Switzer points out that Riojas appeal to a lot of consumers.
"If you like Pinot Noir, it's not a big stretch to go up to Tempranillo. It just has more body and weight. If you love your big Cabernets and Syrahs, this will be a bit lighter in body. You may be sacrificing big tannins, but there's no decline in terms of complexity and flavour.
As we move into barbecue season, my recommendation is to enjoy the Antano Rioja with some grilled lamb chops with rosemary, garlic, and lemon-flavoured olive oil.
Next time, we will explore more of the affordable, world-class wines of Spain.
Sip Wines is hosting another Winemaker's Dinner at Tapenade Bistro on Wednesday May 21 at 6:30 p.m. featuring Kim Pullen of Church & State Wines. Call 604-271-9463.
Eric Hanson is a life-long Richmond resident, a retired teacher and wine educator.
