Food suggestions > Red meat

Norte 2005

A typical Navarra wine, in that it benefits from both the warm Mediterranean and cooler Atlantic influences. This is an uncomplicated but interesting blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. After six months aging in French oak barrels, the softness of the Merlot grape prevails, but the mature, subtle black fruit aromas of the Cabernet Sauvignon remain. On the nose, look out for delicate aromas of blackberries and blueberries, with an interesting spicy and smoky edge. A good long finish, with round, not too ripe tannins makes this a perfect match for pork, lamb and turkey.

Minotauro Azul 2004

This award-winning wine reflects a perfect blending of old and young, with Grenache grapes (50%) from vines over 60 years old, together with Tempranillo (30%), Cabernet- Sauvignon (10%) and Merlot (10%), all from younger vines. Add in three months in new American oak barrels and the result is a very interesting wine with a subtle oaky edge and a smooth, velvety feel on the palate, and just a touch of acidity. The colour is cherry red, with violet notes due to its youth. There are fresh, ripe red fruits on the nose, with notes of cinnamon, vanilla and delicate hints of flowers. Great stuff - and good value too.

Abadal 2004

Blending the peppery finesse of Cabernet Franc with the depth of Tempranillo makes this a wine full of character, where the expressive tannins of the grape are inescapable.

Wines based on Cabernet Franc are the exception in Spain but well worth seeking out. Here, blending with the fantastic black Tempranillo grape has given rise to dark cherry flavours and wonderful hints of pungent Mediterranean herbs.

Perhaps it is this gentle hint of herbs that makes this well-structured and balanced wine so suited to roasts of all kinds. This is definitely one to enjoy over a lunch you have no intention of hurrying; a good steak, leg of lamb or a hunk of roast beef.

Altun Crianza 2004

The intense heat of the Mediterranean is the first thing you notice in this classic Rioja. A superb wine that greets you with aromas so intense you may find it hard to get your nose out of the glass. The deep reddish purple of the Tempranillo holds within it a spicy edge of cinnamon, which gives way to a meaty, soft flavour. As relaxing as the dinner you should enjoy it with.

Baron de Ley Reserva 2002

This is a classic Rioja Reserva and one of our most popular wines. It's cherry red, meaty yet soft, and full of aromas of red fruits and vanilla, with spice, oak and cedar overtones. A very pleasant and long aftertaste. The winery covers over 100 hectares and is set around an ancient monastery were wine production can be traced back to the 16th Century. Today, it's a cooperative. One for the Sunday roast - or the midweek stew.

Senorio de Lazan Reserva 2001

14 months in barrel and 24 in the bottle before it gets to you. Imagine the aromas and taste!

This wine is made by one of the top wineries in Somontano. Tempranillo has been mixed with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The result is a wine with all the Tempranillo notes but softened by the influence of Cabernet Sauvignon and, specially, Merlot. Superb value for money!