Several weeks ago at my favorite restaurant I had a really nice Tinto Fino from Ribera del Duero; it was the 2004 Crianza from Bodega Matarromera. I have since established an “e-mail rapport” with the winery as well as the winery’s representative up in New Jersey and recently bought a case of the same 2004 wine. I began to e-mail because I did not then know that Tinto Fino and Tempranillo were one in the same.
I had almost decided not to go for a lunch walk due to the really terrible weather but I did. As I was walking, I passed Jaleo, a popular DC restaurant featuring Spanish Tapas; one of many restaurants operated by internationally renowned Chef José Andrés. Looking through the windows, I noted that there were hundreds of wine glasses on tables and wine tasting stations around the perimeter of the floor. A sign on the front door indicated that they were closed to the public. It turns out that the organization of Ribera del Duero wine producers was having a tasting for local wine shops and restaurants.
I went in and asked the receptionist if Bodega Matarromera was represented and found that they were. Assuring the receptionist I was not crashing the tasting, I was allowed in – middle age has its benefits.
I was fortunate enough to find the very individuals I had been e-mailing and whose wine I so much enjoyed. They officially me registered me for the event as their guest and the cold rain and wind were forgotten, at least for a little while; what gracious people.
Tasting Crianza, Reserve and Grand Reserve back to back really gave me an appreciation for the aging requirements of each, especially considering they were the same varietal - a wonderful learning experience.
I even got to meet Chef Andrés! But without question, the highlight was all the wines from Ribera del Duero and Bodega Matarromera in particular.