Wine to Try: Orlegi de Luberri Cosecha 2016

Hailing from Spain, one of a handful of countries with a reputation of producing quality wines at bargain prices, (a topic worthy of at least a handful of future posts) this pure Tempranillo from the Rioja region proves to be no different. Carrying a light body, the wine is balanced by mellow tannins. Refreshing, a bottle is easy to finish with a companion, but be sure to enjoy the flavors while you can, as the aftertaste is short.

Produced by Luberri Cellars in Elciego, a tiny village that sits north of Madrid, and south of the Bay of Biscay, it is led by the passionate Mr. Florentino Martínez Monje. When asked in an interview, "What is the best way to drink them?" referring to his wine, his answer: "–Always." Serves as a refreshing reminder, that as easy as it is to fall into the vines of wine(or be a snob), it's important to keep everything in context. Wine is meant to add a little bit of pleasure to our everyday lives, not engulf it.

Priced at under $15.00.

100% Tempranillo grape.

From the maker:

Luberri is the cellar’s youngest wine, made by the traditional method in Rioja Alavesa, the carbonic maceration system, which enhances remarkably fresh red fruit aromas and tones of violet flowers and licorice. It is agile and fresh in mouth, with a final vegetal taste of unripe almonds that leaves a persistent memory. It is the purest expression of that bright youth that is renovated year after year by nature and knowledge.

See the tasting notes provided by the maker for more information.