Rioja And Tapas

Three Riojas from Spain's CVNE with matching tapas - as recommended by the winemakers themselves

CVNE’s winemakers have selected three wines from Cune, Viña Real and Contino and suggested their favourite tapas pairings to go with them.

Cune Crianza 2011, (£10.25, Majestic, Booths, Wine Rack, independents) juicy red and black cherries with some spice.

Marίa Larrea, Cune, recommends: Jamón Iberico and Olive Oil

Viña Real Crianza 2011, (£11.05, Wine Rack, Fortnum & Mason, Drinkshop.com and other independents) Oaky spice and ripe cherries with a touch of undergrowth; fresh and accomplished.

Good.

Eva de Benito, Viña Real, recommends: Rump Steak and Morcilla meatballs

Contino Reserva 2008, (£20.50, Tesco, The drinkshop.com, Fortnum & Mason, The Oxford Wine Company, Wimbledon Wine Cellars, independents) ripe cherry and damson fruits, well-integrated oaky spice with some aged leathery gaminess. Supple plump and harmonious - a very adept wine.

Very Good.

Jesús Madrazo, Contino, recommends: lamb chops cooked over vine prunings

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