Spain has had a unique position in the wine world, mainly being a “sleeping giant”, one who has had a vast and rich fabric of grape varieties, cultivated land, history, and unique style, all the while embracing modernity at an impressive clip. Spain is the cross-roads of many wine debates over what is “new world” or “modern” and what is “old world” and “classical”. Spain seems to meld these and make it more difficult for our modern wine press and wine critiques to put these terms into relevant use; however they do so deftly.

What we find in Spanish Wine might best be described in the words of masterful wine entrepreneur Sr. Eguren of Spain as “nuevos classicos”, or “new classics” or even “new classicists” in wine.

The wines may be cleaner and more fruit-forward than older, traditional styles; yet they are almost most certainly better made wines of value and ageing potential, while nodding to the past.

This dichotomy of past and present, or traditional and modern, puts Spain at a unique crossroads with a broad and very interesting offering, from whites to reds, roses, and sparkling or cavas, lest we forget the deep and unique category of “generosos” or Sherry wines from Spain.

It is truly an exciting time for the wine world and for Spain, as this penisula makes an indellible mark on this time in wine making with its unique old-world-meets-modernity style.

I embrace it, and I envite you to as well.

Cheers!
SpW