Tempranillo Tag Team

Still looking for wine inspiration at Thanksgiving?  Why not go with something a bit different... let's say something like Tempranillo?  This Spanish grape provides some nice tannins and spices that would go nicely with that Turkey, Goose or Duck that is about to be cooked.  It would be equally at home paired up against a pork roast, lamb or ham.

You get the idea.  This is one versatile Luchador.  And to prove that point this week's matchup features a Washington Tempranillo taking on a Tag Team duo of Killer V Tempranillos from Spain.

Tildio 2008 Estate Tempranillo v. Vina Vilano Ribera del duero 2005 and Valsacro 2005 Rioja

Washington Malbec v. Argentina

This is the time of year that the pro riders are looking for warmer places to ride.  Like the Malbec grape, many riders are heading South.

Malbec has migrated South from France and setup shop in Argentina in the last half-century.  At the present time many people associate Malbec with Argentina rather than its original home in France.  While Malbec is typically a blending grape in most parts of the world, it is often seen as a single varietal in Argentina and more recently in Washington.

This week's matchup features a Washington Malbec taking on a Southern Hemisphere challenger from Argentina.

2008 Gamache Estate Malbec v. 2006 Rutini Malbec

Washington Cabernet Sauvignon v. Napa Valley

The San Francisco Giants won the World Series in four straight games.  I don't need any better reason to choose one of the giants of the grape world for this week's challenge.

This week's matchup features a Washington Cabernet Sauvignon taking on a Cabernet Sauvignon from the Napa Valley.

2008 Powers Cabernet Sauvignon Sheridan Reserve v. 2008 Rombauer Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon