Written by: James Suckling | November 23, 2021
Just over a month ago, we finished our tasting of 1,500 Spanish wines, and from those we whittled our list down to the Top 100 for 2021. Above all, it shows that the country is currently at a crossroads of change, with innovative, young producers joining and sometimes surpassing their well-versed and traditional cohort in making superb wines in a mosaic of styles from revived vineyards, cooler terroirs and forgotten grapes.
If you still think Rioja is in a rut with its same old coconutty and uncreative wines, or that Ribera del Duero offerings are overly drenched in oak and extraction, or that Priorat goes a little overboard with brooding color, monolithic density and warming alcohol, then now is the time to embrace a whole new slew of wines that tick the boxes of purity, vibrancy, finesse, fluidity and drinkability.
Many of these wines reflect the individuality and unique character of single vineyards, some as small as a hectare or even less, transmitting their unique Spanish character and terroir.
#81. Nekeas Garnacha Navarra El Chaparral de Vega Sindoa Old Vines 2019
Spain
Navarra
2019
Score: 93
Very clear and aromatic with blackberry, strawberry and violet character, following through to the mid-palate with firm yet fine tannins and a vivid finish. This is really well done. Drink or hold.
#83. Bodegas Ordoñez Verdejo Rueda Nisia Las Suertes Old Vines 2020
Spain
Castilla y León
2020
Score: 93
Peaches, mangoes, cooked lemons, herbs and praline on the nose, as well as some beeswax and dough. It’s full-bodied with bright acidity and a creamy, round and flavorful palate. Deliciously buttery, textured finish. Drink now.
