Washington Tempranillo v. Rioja

This year's edition of the Volta a Catalunya did not stay within the confines of the Catalunya region.  Instead, it traced a route through most of Spain that skirted the Rioja region on the third and fourth stages of the week long race.

Spending two days in the vicinity of Rioja certainly provided a great opportunity for the pro racers to enjoy some excellent wines.  In addition to the cycling action, Rioja is also celebrating its 100th anniversary.

Ultimately, the general classification was won by Jonas Vingegaard in his early season built up to an attempt at winning his third Tour de France in July.

This edition of the Lucha Vino challenge pits the 2012 Idilico Tempranillo against the 2016 Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Crianza.

Washington Tempranillo vs. Rioja

Alejandro Valverde finally won the UCI World Championships this year after finishing in the top 3 in six previous editions of the World Championship road race.  He added the Gold Medal, on a hilly course in Innsbruck Austria, to go with his four bronze and two silver medals.

Even though Valverde has been implicated in past blood doping scandals, he has never failed a doping test.  This has lead to him being a polarizing figure in the pro cycling peloton.  Say what you will, but Valverde is the only racer to achieve success after emerging from the "doping era."  Most of his cycling peers that were implicated in doping schemes retired or never returned to anything representing their doping fueled form.

To recognize Valverde's world championship success and celebrate International Tempranillo day, this edition of the Lucha Vino challenge features a Washington Tempranillo taking on a challenger from Rioja.

2012 Idilico Tempranillo vs. 2010 Rioja La Tercera Reserva

Washington Tempranillo vs. Rioja

This year's Vuelta a Espana was action packed throughout all three weeks of racing.  Things really heated up during the last week of the race, which featured some intense racing through the Northern most mountains of Spain.  Chris Froome held off all the challengers to win his second Grand Tour of the year and Alberto Contador went on one final mountain rampage to win, perhaps, his final Grand Tour stage.

In recognition of the racing action in Northern Spain, this week's Lucha Vino matchup features a Washington Tempranillo taking on a Spanish Tempranillo from Rioja.  Rioja is one of the Northernmost wine regions of Spain.  It primarily features Tempranillo and consistently turns out excellent wines year after year.

2014 Kerloo Cellars Tempranillo vs. 2011 Muga Rioja Seleccion Especial

Washington Tempranillo v. Rioja

This year's Vuelta Espana hugged the Northern border of Spain during the second week of racing.  This brought the racers through a variety of terrain including stage 12 which ended in a sprint finish in the town of Bilbao.  The racing was tense throughout the middle section of the Vuelta.  Nairo Quintana, and his Movistar team, had their work cutout for them defending the leader's red jersey as the race traced its route through the Northern reaches of Spain. 

There aren't many wine regions along the Northern edge of Spain.  The race came closest to the Rioja DOC, home of a wide range of tantalizing Tempranillo.

This week's Lucha Vino match up features a Washington Tempranillo taking on Rioja.

2013 Saviah Cellars Tempranillo v. 2001 Diez Caballero Vendimia Seleccionada

Washington Tempranillo v. Ribera del Duero

The World Championships took place in Italy a couple of weeks ago.  Spain had the perfect setup to win the race, but something weird happened in the final kilometers of the race. 

Joaquim Rodriguez, from Spain, had a break away lead for a significant length of time at the end of the race.  With less than 5 km to go in the race Rodriguez sill held a slight lead with three more riders trailing close behind: Vincenzo Nibali of Italy, Rui Costa of Portugal and Alejandro Valverde of Spain.  Rui Costa put in an attack and bridged up to Rodriguez leaving the two of them to battle it out for the victory.  Costa took the win for Portugal's first ever world men's road race championship.

Spain was perfectly situated for the victory with two riders in the final break of four.  Many observers were perplexed that Valverde did not cover Costa's attack.  Valverde's lack of action most likely cost Spain the World Championships this year.  They ended up with second and third, but that is little consolation when the top step is so close.

This week's Lucha Vino challenge pits a challenger from Ribera del Duero against a Washington State Tempranillo.  Let's see if the Spanish challenger can have any better luck than Rodriguez and Valverde.

2010 Tranche Cellars Tempranillo v. 2001 Bodegas Balbas Gran Reserva

Washington Garnacha v. Aragon

The Vuelta Espana featured a final week of racing in Northern Spain that included a number of mountain passes and hill top finishes.  Chris Horner put together several good races and took over the race lead, putting himself in position to be the oldest grand tour winner ever.

This week we pay homage to old guys with an old vine Garnacha from Northern Spain taking on a Washington State Tempranillo.

2007 Tildio Tempranillo v. 2010 Tres Picos Borsao Garnacha

Washington Tempranillo vs. Ribera del Duero

The pro racers have scattered to a variety of week long stage races in the past two weeks with many of them heading South to Spain to begin preparing for the Vuelta Espana.

There were two short stage races in the North of Spain around the Ribera del Duero region.  The Vuelta a Burgos is the higher rated of the two races and includes a stage that begins in Ribera del Duero

This week's Lucha Vino challenge features a Washington State Tempranillo battling with a Tinto from the Ribera del Duero DOC.

2009 Bartholomew Tempranillo v. 2009 Tinto Pesquera Crianza

Toro, Toro, Toro! Tinta de Toro v. Washington

The stage races in Northern Spain are wrapping up with the Vuelta Castilla y Leon.  This race used to be longer, but has been reduced to three stages due to lack of sponsor funding.  The race route travels North from Madrid and passes reasonably close to the Toro D.O.

This week's challenge features a Spanish Tempranillo from the Toro D.O. battling with a Washington state Tempranillo.

2010 Vina Salida Tempranillo v. 2008 Bodega Teso la Monja Almirez Tinta de Toro

Washington Tempranillo vs. Rioja

This past week featured a race that is sure to bring delight to a wine lover.  The Vuelta Ciclista a La Rioja - the Tour of Rioja.  Who wouldn't love riding their bike around the Rioja DOC?  I know that I would!

This pro tour event used to be an actual "tour" with multiple stages.  But, with the hard financial times and less than altruistic bike racing ethos, sponsorship has fallen off and the event is now a one day race.  This year the winner was Francesco Lasca, an Italian that rides for the Spanish team Caja Rural.  The best placed Spanish rider was Juan Jose Lobato Del Valle from Euskaltel-Euskadi - the Spanish team that used to be comprised of all Basque Country riders until recently when pressure for race results outweighed regional pride when selecting their team.

This week's matchup honors the Rioja region and the King grape of Spain.

2009 Castillo de Feliciana Tempranillo v. 2006 Beronia Rioja Reserva

Battle in Seattle II:Washington v. Rioja

This is the second installment in my End of the World Battle in Seattle series.  The battles were interrupted as my world almost ended on 12/12/12 when a car hit me riding my bike to work.  I'm really lucky to have "only" sustained a cracked rib along with some cuts.  The worst issue is a disk pressing on a nerve in my back.  That nerve pain is like nothing I have ever felt and hope to never experience again once I recover.

In this week's match a Washington Tempranillo works on bringing the pain down on a Spanish challenger from Rioja.

2009 Bartholomew Tempranillo v. 2007 Vina Eguia Rioja Reserva

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 Tempranillo v. Ribera Del Duero

The Vuelta a Espana wrapped up this weekend in Madrid.  The race was going along smoothly for Joaquim Rodriguez who was able to maintain his overall lead through the Stage 13 Individual Time Trial (hills are his forte' not turning a big gear).  Maybe Rodriguez got over confident.  Or maybe Alberto Contador was just waiting for the right moment.  No matter the reason, Alberto Contador launched a massive attack, and took control of the race, on stage17 to Fuente De.

Rodriguez lost over two minutes to Contador, along with the race lead, on the way to the Fuente De mountain top finish.  Alberto Contador grabbed hold of the race lead and never let go leading the race all the way in to Madrid (his home town).  You could say that Contador stormed the race like a bull storming a matador.  And that would be fitting for the racer from Madrid where bull fighting is still on Spain's entertainment menu.

This week's matchup honors a bull that defied the odds.  The name of that bull is Idilico.

2009 Idilico Tempranillo v. 2010 Frontaura y Victoria Nexus Cosecho

Red Mountain Tempranillo v. Ribera del Duero

This past weekend featured the National Championship races for the majority of the cycling world.  Naturally, the big three wine countries were all featured over the weekend - France, Italy and Spain.  This left me with a difficult choice, which country to visit this final weekend before the start of the Tour de France.

My choice landed me in Spain.  With the Spanish National Championship Road Race taking place in Salamanca located in Castilla y Leon I selected the King D.O. - Ribera del Duero to represent the challenger.

2010 8 Bells Tempranillo v. 2008 Finca Villacreces Ribera del Duero Pruno

Washington Tempranillo vs. Ribera del Duero

This week features the Vuelta Castilla y Leon.  A world tour stage race in Central Spain, just to the North of Madrid.  This race is a welcome return to a (hopefully) warmer climate and stage racing for the pro cyclists that don't crave the wicked challenge of cold weather, cobblestones and long one day races.

The route for this race rolls through the Ribera del Duero region of Spain.  This week Tempranillo makes a return to the Lucha Vino challenge with a bio-dynamic Spanish challenger stepping into the ring to take on a Washington Tempranillo from the Yakima Valley.

2009 Airfield Estates Tempranillo v. 2009 Vina Sastre Tinto 

Tale of the Tape


2009 Airfield Estates Tempranillo

96% Tempranillo and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Airfield Estates Runway Vineyard in the Yakima Valley

Aged for 11 months in 25% - 35% new oak barrels: 60% French 30% American and 10% Eastern European

Purchased at Esquin for $19.99










2009 Vina Sastre Tinto

100% Tempranillo from biodynamic and organically grown estate fruit.

Aged for 7 months in 2 year old American oak barrels.

Purchased at Esquin for $19.99

Tech Sheet










Round 1. First Opening


Airfield has some sassy swagger with a nose of black berry, clove and spicy sweet pepper.  The palate also has some character of black berries with a sweet tart cracked pepper finish.

Vina Sastre is flexing some biodynamic muscle and showing some respect for Ric "Nature Boy" Flair with a nose of earth, smoke and dark fruit.  The palate is equally dark with black fruit and tart pepper that leads into similar peppery finish.

This match is getting off to an interesting start with both Luchadors showing contrasting styles.  The Vina Sastre takes the points with a display of natural power.

Round 2.  One hour after Opening

The Airfield is stepping up and bulking up with a nose of dark fruit, pepper and smoke.  The palate is full of dark fruit, plum, pepper and smoke that lingers on to a sweet smoky white pepper finish.

Vina Sastre, the Nature Boy, is sticking to what it does best with a nose featuring dark fruit, smoke and earth.  The palate is dark fruit, tart cracked pepper and a spicy finish.

Airfield is closing the gap, trying to go toe to toe with the Vina Sastre.  At this point the Spanish Luchador from Ribera del Duero is still in charge and takes round 2.

Round 3. One day after Opening

The Airfield has plenty of stamina and is building power into the third round.  The nose is showing black cherry, plum, balck pepper and some light spices.  The palate is similar with black cherry and spicy pepper that lingers on to a tart spicy finish.

Vina Sastre is steady, methodical, tracking down the opponent and showing no signs of weakeness.  The nose continues to build with smoke, black currant, earth and light notes of pepper.  The palate is black fruit with some notes of menthol that leads to a spicy tart pepper finish.

Round 3 is the closest of the match.  The score goes to the judges cards and the result favors Airfield by a thin margin based on its ability to build strength over the entire match. 

Wrap up and over all observations

The final score of this match was 2 to 1 in favor of the Vina Sastre.  Both of these Tempranillos demonstrated some nice style.  That match was relatively even except for the first round.  The Airfield definitely benefited from more time and exposure to air.

I would rate the Airfield an 86 and the Vina Sastre and 87.  Both of these wines are ready to drink right now.

Washington Tempranillo v. Catalunya

This past week featured the Volta a Catalunya a 7 stage race in North East Spain.  This time of year the pros are searching for races outside of Belgium so they can race in decent weather.  Unfortunately for the racers this year the weather in Catalunya did not cooperate.  The third stage was set to finish at a ski station in Port Aine'.  The only problem was that the weather was more suited to skiing than bike racing.  The finish line was covered in snow so the stage was shortened and results were not counted toward the General Classification.

Similar to the pro racers, the Lucha Vino matchup encountered some unexpected twists.

First, locating a Tempranillo from Catalunya turned out to be more difficult than the promoters anticipated.

Second, the Tempranillo challenger from Catalunya showed up with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as backups!

Third, after a judges ruling allowed the Tempranillo blend into the ring it went rogue!  The Luchador turned out to have gone bad.  Major disappointment.  The previous bottles from my cellar had been pretty enjoyable.  Discovering that the third bottle had gone bad was a letdown.

Scrambling for a replacement Luchador, the promoters were able to find a Tempranillo from the Penedes DO in Catalunya.

2009 Castillo de Feliciana Tempranillo vs. 2005 Castell del Remei Gotim Bru 2007 Torres Coronas Tempranillo

Tale of the Tape

2009 Castillo de Feliciana Tempranillo

75% Tempranillo from the Rosebud Vineyard in the Wahluke Slope AVA
15% Merlot from Cockburn Vineyard
5% Malbec from Cockburn Vineyard
5% Cabernet Sauvignon from Blue Mountain Vineyard

Aged in 70% Neutral and 30% New Oak Barrels

Purchased for $28.00 at the Poverty Bay Wine Festival.






The original challenger

2005 Castell del Remei Gotim Bru

65% Tempranillo, 20% Merlot & 15% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Aged 10 months in American and French oak.

This Luchador went rogue, whereabouts unknown....











The Replacement

2007 Torres Coronas Tempranillo

86% Tempranillo and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Penedes DO in Catalunya.

Aged for 9 months in French Oak Barrels

Purchased for $11.99 at The Spanish Table







  



Round 1.  First Opening

The Feliciana Tempranillo is not phased by all the turmoil surrounding the Luchadors from Catalunya.  In fact, she is dancing into the ring like she is ready to do a tap dance of death on her opponent.  The nose is showing dark red cherries, smoke, leather and cedar cigar humidor character.  The palate is dark cherries with some earthy cocoa  and tart sweetness that leads to a dry light pepper finish.

Torres Coronas, our replacement Luchador, comes from a family that boasts over 100 years of experience in the ring!  Let's see how that experience stacks up.  The nose is dark fruit, currant, smoked meats, coffee and chocolate.  The palate is dark fruit some smoke, pepper spice and coffee bean with a tart slightly sweet and nutty finish.

The first round is a close call, but the Feliciana barely edges the Torres on the judges score cards.

Round 2.  One hour after Opening

Everybody is wondering where this replacement Luchador came from.  It put up a very impressive showing in the first round of our match.


The Feliciana is taking notice and building a strong defense with a nose of dark red fruit, smoke and dusty pepper.  The palate shows dark fruit, smoke, leather and a dry finish featuring some coffee bean and cocoa sneaking in at the end.

The Torres continues to draw on the family pedigree with a nose of dark fruit, currants, smoke and light white pepper.  The palate is dark currants, smoke, pepper and a coffee bean tinged tart finish.

Another close round with the Feliciana barely squeaking by on points again.

Round 3. One day after Opening

The only hope for the Spanish challenger is a knock out.  The other choice is to mount a solid effort and score some points to avoid a total sweep by the Washington Tempranillo.

The Feliciana has developed an interesting style for the final round.  The nose is showing peppermint patty mint chocolate and red fruits with a palate of currant and menthol with a tart spiced finish.

The Torres is building power and looking for the knockout blow.  This Luchador is bigger and badder in round three than the preceding rounds.  The nose is dark currant, coffee and smoky cracked pepper.  The palate is dark cherry and tart cedar Asian spice with a tart dry finish that resolves to cherry and raspberry.

The Torres didn't score a knock out, but it did score enough points to take the final round earning the respect of Feliciana and the judges.

The final score of this match was Feliciana 2 and Torres 1.  The Torres proved to be a valiant warrior.  Thrown in to the ring at the last moment, this Luchador did more than hold its own!

Wrap up and over all observations

This was an interesting match that had plenty of drama before either Luchador even entered the ring.  Both of these wines are classified as Tempranillo even though they contain a healthy amount of other verietals to boost their power.

Both Luchadors proved their ability to boost their power like a street racer hitting the nitrous.   The big difference was staying power.  Both of these Luchadors hit the nitrous and then kept on delivering the goods for days following the match.  I would recommend both of these Wine Fighters with one caveat - if you walk into a dark alley, make sure you have them by your side and not in your face!

I give the Feliciana an 88 and the Torres an 87.

Tempranillo Three Way

This week's racing in Spain and Southern France was interrupted by snow.  Yes.  Snow!  The big news of the week was the CAS ruling on Alberto Cantador's positive Clenbuterol test.  It took more than 500 days to come to the conclusion that Cantador was guilty of violating the WADA drug codes and should be suspended for 2 years.

The funny thing is Contador will actually only miss about 6 months of racing with his ban.  He was allowed to race during the first 18 months of the ban.  During that time he won the Giro d'talia and several other races.  Not any more.  All those results will be erased from the record books.  If you ask me, a two year ban should begin from the date of your last race, not when you were initially accused of violating the WADA code.

Regardless, there was big outrage from past Spanish cycling champions  coming to Cantador's defense.  With all the rage in Spain I thought it would be a good time to break out some Tempranillo.

This week we'll take an unusual twist on the Lucha Vino matchup with a three way battle for Tempranillo Supremacy.

Washington 2008 Kerloo Cellars Tempranillo v. Oregon 2007 Abacela Tempranillo v. Spain 2006 Dominio de Atauta Ribera del Duero

Tale of the Tape


2008 Kerloo Cellars Tempranillo

100% Tempranillo sourced from Stone Tree Vineyard block 17 (56%) on the Wahluke Slope and Les Collines Vineyard block 6 (44%) in the Walla Walla Valley.

Aged in 22% New Nadalie and 78% Neutral French Oak Barrels for  17 months

Purchased at Cellar 46 for $32.00

2007 Abacela Tempranillo

100% Tempranillo sourced from Abacela’s Estate Fault Line Vineyards.

Aged in French (95%), American (5%), 10% new, 45% 2-yr old Oak Barrels.

Purchased from wine.com for $26.99

2006 Dominio de Atauta Ribera del Duero

100% Tampranillo (Tinto Fino)

Aged in 100% new French Oak Barrels for 17 months.

Provided as a sample by Vinum Importing.  Thanks Gavin!

Available at retail for $30.00.








Round 1.  First Opening

Kerloo is first to step into the ring anticipating the entrance of the Abacela and Atauta.  Exuding nervous energy the nose is showing dusty dark logan berry, brambles and some light toasty notes.  The palate is dark rich currant and menthol that ends with a tart cherry bark finish.

The Spanish challenger swaggers into the arena showing a nose of smoky barnyard funk and toasty dark currant.  The palate also shows dark smoky currant with a dry tart cherry finish.

The promoters are out looking for the Oregonian.  It appears that Abacela may be protesting instead of fighting.  The nose is not showing much with only some dusty light smoke character making an appearance.  The palate is juicy cherries and a dry tart cedar finish.

This round came down to a battle between the Kerloo from Washington and the Dominio de Atauta.  The battle was close with the Kerloo taking the first round points by a narrow margin.

Round 2.  One hour after Opening

The Kerloo is gaining strength with a nose of dusty dark currants and some hints of cedar spices.  The palate shows dark currant, earth, clove and menthol spices that linger on to the finish.

The Atauta is stepping up to go toe to toe with Kerloo.  The nose is showing notes of leather, earth, dark fruit and some sandal wood spices.  The palate boasts dark cherries and a tart cedar spiced finish that is ultra dry.

The Abacela is still negotiating with the promoters.  The nose is still not showing much character and the palate is warming up  on the heavy bag with notes of medium dark berries, cranberry and a finish that continues to be super dry.

Another round with Kerloo and Atauta battling for the points.  Just like the first round, this one was close with Kerloo barely edging the Spanish challenger.

Round 3. Three Hours Later (Intermediate Bonus Round)

With three contenders the judges have decided to add an intermediate bonus round at the three hour mark.

The contracts are signed and the Abacela has entered the ring boasting a nose of dusty black cherries and smoke.  The palate is coming on strong with black cherry, menthol spices and a peppery tart finish.

The Kerloo scoffs at the mere suggestion that any contender may be ready to drop some show stopping moves.  The nose has developed black cherry, dusty leather and cinnamon spices with a palate that is equally bold.  The finish comes off the top rope with loads of spicyness.

Our Atauta Spanish contender showcases some complexity with a nose that is showing some peat notes along with big mineral infused dusty dark berries.  The palate is bold with dark mineral fruit and a super dry finish.

In round three the Abacela showed why it was worth the promoter's time to get the contracts in order and satisfy the Oregon Challenger's demands.

The Abacela brought the power and the Atauta brought some complex style, but Kerloo was ready for the challenge and dominated round three with an Atomic Drop off the top turnbuckle.

Round 4. One Day Later

All three Luchadors are still going strong.  With the Kerloo ahead on all the judges score cards it looks like Spain and Oregon may be forming a secret alliance.

The Atauta is showing some ring savy, changing styles and bringing the Kung Fu with a nose of dark fruit, brambles, cracked pepper and menthol spices.  The palate is also showing dark fruit  with light spices and a pepper tart finish that continues to be as dry as the bones of a retired Luchador.

The Abacela seems to be content with letting Atauta take the lead, but is still putting up a good fight when called on with a nose showing earthy darkness and notes of licorice.  The palate is loaded with dark fruits and some pepper that trails off into a tart cedar finish.

The Kerloo is momentarily stunned, but regains its composure.  Ultimately the two ganging up on Kerloo only seem to have caused the Washington Tempranillo to throw a Hulk sized temper-tantrum.  The nose has character of earth, dark berries and brambles with a palate featuring dark cherries and clove spices that move on to a spicy brambly finish. 

Wrap up and over all observations

This was an interesting match up.  The comparison of Tempranillo from Washington, Oregon and Spain showed plenty of similarities as well as differences in character and style.  Each of the Luchadors built strength over the course of the match.

In the end, the Kerloo from Washington demonstrated the boldest approach with consistency throughout the match. 

Then came the Atauta which seems like it could easily gain more power by chilling in the cellar for another couple of years. 

Getting a slow start, the Abacela did finally enter the mix in the later rounds but did not have enough to upset the pecking order that had already been established.  The Abacela handlers say that decanting is strongly recommended.  I'll say!  The character really began to shine after three hours of exposure.

I give the Kerloo an 89 and the Atauta and Abacela both an 88.

Washington Tempranillo v. Navarra Tempranillo

Well would you look at this!  The UCI Cyclocross World Cup made a trip to Spain this past weekend.  That means it is time to bust out a little Tempranillo Tornado.  The World Cup race was in Igorre which is in the Northern Basque region of Spain.  The winner of the race gets to wear a crazy hat with three points called a txapela.  Not exactly what you might call stylish.  Hopefully, our challenger from the Navarra wine region will look better after this match than Kevin Pauwels or Chris Horner did in that lid...

This week features Washington Tempranillo v. Spanish Tempranillo from the Navarra DO.

Fall Line 2009 Tampranillo v. Ochoa Tempranillo Crianza 2006

Tale of the Tape

Ochoa Tempranillo Crianza 2006

100% single vineyard Tempranillo

Aged for 12 months in American Oak Barrels.

Purchased at the Spanish Table for $16.99

 Fall Line 2009 Tempranillo

This is the first vintage for Fall Line's Tempranillo, 100% Tempranillo from the Boushey Vineyard in the Yakima Valley.

Aged for 18 months in 14% new French Oak Barrels

Purchased at the Fall Line winery's release party for $25.00.









Round 1.  First Opening

The Ochoa has a nose of dusty leather and cherries with a palate that is showing lots of tart cherry with some light notes of spice in the background.  The finish is dry and slightly acidic at the end.

El Otro oozes confidence even though this is its first trip into the ring.  The nose shows character of dust, earth, light smoke and ripe red raspberry and cherry notes.  The palate is dark rich currant, cherry and clove spices on a nice tart finish.

El Otro has a name made for Lucha Libre and doesn't disappoint easily taking round one over an opponent that is already showing signs of being over matched.

Round 2.  One hour after Opening

The Ochoa is doing its best to bulk up and take the fight to El Otro.  Ochoa is showing a nose with more character including some barnyard funk, musty forest floor and mushroom with dark fruit and a hint of spice.  The palate is dark fruit with cedar cigar box spices and a dry tart finish.

El Otro storms into the ring with some brute force showing a nose that is driven by savory, smokey dark fruit with some notes of mineral.  The palate is equally bold with dark currant and smoked meats with a dry cedar finish.

Props to Ochoa for stepping up its game, but it is still no match for our Washington State Luchador.  El Otro takes round 2 for a 2-0 lead.

Round 3. One day later

The Ochoa has lost some of the spring in its step.  The nose has notes of earthy cranberry and the palate is predominantly cranberry tartness with a tart cherry bark finish.

El Otro is unveiling some sinister intentions.  The nose shows smoke, sandal wood and dark cherry along with some floral and cocoa notes.  The palate has dark cherry, leather and earthy clove and bitter sweet chocolate notes that linger on to a tart Asian cedar spice finish

Well played El Otro.  You may be called "The Other One" but in this competition you were Number One!

Wrap up and over all observations

This contest was really no contest from the opening bell.  I did not perform a background check on the Ochoa.  Selecting it as the challenger on first sight.  The only qualification I considered was being from the Navarra region of Spain.  Navarra may be close to Rioja, but based on this single sample I would say that Navarra has a lot of catching up to do with its more famous neighbor. 

El Otro showed no mercy and kicked some serious sand in the face of the challenger from Navarra.  The Washington State luchador showed an interesting evolution over the match gaining character and strength throughout.

I give the Fall Line El Otro a solid 89 and the Ochoa a generous 85.

Washington State Tempranillo v. La Mancha

The Vuelta Espana barely gets Miss Congeniality respect when people talk about the Grand Tours of Cycling.  The Tour de France v. the Giro d' Italia v. the Vuelta Espana is like Andre the Giant v. Ric Flair v. Cyndi Lauper.

So, a funny thing happened this year when the Vuelta offered up the best racing of all three Grand Tours.  There was excitement, intrigue and plenty of action right down to the final stages of the race.  Le Tour and the Giro both wish they had racing as interesting and compelling as the Vuelta.  Three cheers for Juan Jose Cobo who won his country's grand tour.

This week Lucha Vino offers up a final tribute to the Vuelta Espana featuring a matchup of Tempranillo temptations.  Representing Spain was the 2007 Ercavio Tempranillo roble v. Washington State's 2007 Tildio Tempranillo.

Tale of the Tape

2007 Ercavio Tempranillo Roble

100% Tempranillo aged for tive months in French and American oak barrels.

Purchased from Esquin for $12.99.

2007 Tildio Tempranillo

100% estate grown Tempranillo aged in American and French Oak (50% new).

Purchased at the Winery for $20.

Round 1.  First Opening:

You would be hard pressed to confuse the Ercavio for the Man of La Mancha.  Perhaps the really old man of La Mancha.  It seems like Spain sent out an imposter for the opening round of this match.  This Tempranillo was dominated by the essence of sour oak and over ripe prunes and raisins.  Something was not right.

The Tildio was showing some brute force right out of the gate.  The nose shows currant, black fruit, cedar and light pepper with a slight funky mineral quality.  The palate is rich with currants and smoked meats with spicy cracked pepper and a slightly dry finish.

Tildio takes round one while the Ercavio seeks refuge and searches for its walker.

Round 2.  One hour after Opening

Tildio comes out of the dressing room ready to lay down the law.  The nose is showing some funk along with currant, dark fruit and some espresso bean and spices.  The palate is equally complex with currant, black cherry and clove with slightly dry cedar spice box finish and some tobacco leaf.

The Ercavio is still searching for its lost machismo.  The character of prunes, figs and raisins continue to dominate.  This Luchador is being kicked back to the training center and a fresh Ercavio was retrieved from Esquin to continue the match.

The new / real Ercavio is showing better.  The replacement does show some more character and tart cedar tannins along with a bit of cracked pepper.

The Ercavio is still no match for the Tildio Terror.  Tildio takes a semi-controversial round 2 with the La Mancha calling for backup.

Round 3. One day later

The Ercavio backup has found some overnight mojo demonstrating a nose that is toasty and dusty with notes of currant, leather and slightly sour mineral tones.  The palate is deep, dark fruit with some sweet tart cedar and a cherry bark finish.

The Tildio nose is showing plenty of body with currants, dark fruit, espresso bean, cinnamon and semi-sweet chocolate.  The palate is big, dark cherries, cola, coffee and features a tart spicy Asian spice finish.

Ercavio tried to save face, but could not muster enough strength to topple Tildio.  Round 3 goes to Tildio for a clean sweep.

Wrap up and over all observations

This match was never really in question.  The Tildio Tempranillo took the victory easily.  After opening what seems to have been a bad bottle, the Ercavio got back on track after Esquin replaced the original Luchador for me.

Ercavio, the Old Man of La Mancha continued to return days after the match was over evolving and developing.  Somewhat confused and delusional the old Luchador wanted to continue fighting.  I could not help but notice he was growing more interesting as he shadow boxed and taunted unseen opponents.  There may be better days ahead for the Ercavio perhaps, perhaps...

I give the Tildio an 88 and the Ercavio an 82.

Washington Tempranillo blend v. Spanish Rioja

The Vuelta Espana finally made it up North and is headed toward the Rioja region.  There has been lots of great racing as the course headed into the mountains.  The latest action saw JJ Cobo take the race leader's Red Jersey and then defend it on the last up hill finish of the race.  Cobo has a slim 13 second lead, but should be able to protect that as the race speeds toward Madrid.

This week's Vuelta Espana Lucha Vino matchup features a 2005 R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Crianza v. Washington State Spanish Style blend from Brian Carter Cellars 2008 Corrida.

Tale of the Tape

R. Lopez de Heredia Vina Cubillo Crianza 2005

65% Tempranillo, 25% Garnacha with the remainder Mazuelo and Graciano all estate grown.  Aged for 3 years in barrel.

Purchased from Bin 41 for $23.

Brian Carter Cellars 2008 Corrida

66% Tempranillo, 17% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Garnacha.  The grapes were sourced from Stone Tree Vineyards on the Wahluke Slope and Olsen Brothers Vineyards, Lonesome Springs Vineyards, Solstice Vineyards and Eldering Vineyard all in located in the Yakima Valley.  Aged for 22 months in monstly French Oak, 30% new and 70% used.

Purchased from Bin 41 for $30.

Round 1.  First Opening:

The R. Lopez has a nose of sandal wood and light red berries.  The palate is cherries and some licorice and anis lurking in the background ending with a sweet dry cherry finish.

The Corrida has a nose of cedar spices, cloves and currants with some light smokey toast character.  The palate is currants, Asian spices, espresso and semi-sweet chocolate lingering on to a dry finish. 

Both luchadors came into the ring showing some interesting character.  The Corrida lived up to its meaning in Spanish - "Bull Fight" with a flourish of the red cape and some fancy footwork represented in the variety of characteristics present on the nose and palate.

Round 1 goes to the Brian Carter Cellars Corrida.

Round 2.  One hour after Opening

The R. Lopez is showing a nose of red fruits, sour peat bog and licorice with a palate of red fruit dry cedar and notes of licorice with some cherry notes on the finish.

The Corrida is continuing to evolve with the nose showing dark currant, smoke, espresso and chocolate with a palate showing similar characteristics to the nose and wraps up with a dry toffee and spice finish.

The R. Lopez is light on its feet, bobbing and weaving.  The Corrida is stomping in to deliver some heavy handed body blows.  This round is close with a slight edge going to the Corrida for aggressiveness.

Round 3. One day later

The R. Lopez has reached into its bag of tricks and is delivering a nose of funky sandal wood. cinnamon mole, hints of chocolate and ripe red berries.  The palate is showing some light red berry, coffee and menthol with a slight dry cedar finish. 

The Corrida has really beefed up for the final round with a nose of dark currant, dusty black cherries and hints of spices, semi-sweet chocolate and espresso.  The palate has similar character with a tart cedar Asian spice finish that is slightly acidic that mellows into spiciness with more air.

Both Luchadors brought some big changes over night.  Kudos to both for reaching back and adjusting their attack in an attempt to win the match.  This was another close call, but the final round also goes to the Corrida for being bigger, badder and bolder looking a bit like Mr. T. sporting miles of gold chain.

Wrap up and over all observations

Another close match.  These matchups between Spain and Washington have all been close.  The score might show 3 rounds to none in favor of the Corrida, but the truth is this match could easily have gone to the Spanish Luchador with a bit more luck.

Solid competitors once again.  I give both an 88.

Washington Tinto v. Ribera del Duero

The Vuelta Espana worked its way through Southern Spain last week and took a right hand turn through La Mancha and is headed in the direction of the Ribera del Duero region.  There has been quite a bit of climbing for the first week of a Grand Tour.  The Spanish riders are motivated to show well, and hopefully win, their home race.  Up until today El Purito (Joaquin Rodriguez) had the leader's Red Jersey.  He is in 2nd place trailing by one second.  There should be a major shake up in the race lead with the 40 km Individual Time Trial in Salamanca on Monday.

This week's Vuelta Espana Lucha Vino matchup features a 2006 Bodegas Lopez Cristobal Ribera del Duero v. a 2008 Pomum Cellars Tinto.

Tale of the Tape

Bodegas Lopez Cristobal Ribera del Duero

90% Tempranillo, 5% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.  Aged for 12 months in 50% American and 50% French Oak and then another 12 months in bottle.

Purchased from Bin 41 for $30.

Pomum Cellars Tinto

77% Tempranillo, 9% Garnacha, 9% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Purchased from Full Pull wines for $21.99.

Round 1.  First Opening:

The Lopez Cristobal is showing a nose of red fruit, leather, light spices and a bit of funkiness.  The palate is full of cedar spice box and red berries with a dry spicy finish

The Pomum Cellars Tinto has a nose of deep red black fruit, mineral and funky forest floor with a palate of dark fruits and a spicy dry finish.

Both luchadors showed a dry finish of cedar and spices.  The Washington State Tinto is a bit bolder and the Spanish Ribera del Duero showed a bit more complexity on the nose.  Very close with a slight edge going to the Cristobal for showing more diversity in its attack.

Round 2.  One hour after Opening

The Cristobal Nose has mysteriously vanished with only a slight trace of some barnyard funk.  The palate has deepened showing currants and some cedar tannins with less spice on a finish that is still quite dry.

The Tinto is showing a nose of red fruit, pepper, asian spices and some light buttery character.  The palate is also demonstrating rich currants and pepper spices with a much smoother cedar spice box finish.

We had to send the officials down to the dressing room to see if the Cristobal was still in the building.  The Washington State Tinto takes round 2 with ease.

The crowd is wondering if the Ribera del Duero has thrown in the towel or if it will return for the final round.  Oh the drama...

Round 3. One day later

The Cristobal came raging back for round three with a nose of smoke, dusty dark fruit and cracked pepper.  The palate is showing some dusty floral notes with dark berries and a slightly acidic finish.

The Tinto has also builked up over night.  The nose is earth, leather, dark fruit and a bit of soy sauce and cedar spices.  The palate is red fruit and dry cedar spice box.  The dry finish has really mellowed over night.

With a surprise turn around the Cristobal narrowly edged out the Pomum Cellars Tinto.  Some observers may be calling for some Performance Enhancing Drug testing after this comeback by the Spanish Luchador.

Wrap up and over all observations

This was a close match with a surprise comeback for the Ribera del Duero in the third round giving the Cristobal a 2-1 victory over the Pomum Cellars Tinto.  You would almost think this match had been scripted and that wrestling isn't real!!

Both Luchadors were solid and I give them both an 87.