Peter - Wine Specialist, Pasadena

Road Trip Adventure Wine, anyone?

Are you ready for that road trip you have been dreaming about atop a Norton 500 motorcycle akin to the one from "Motorcycle Diaries?" This image may be the proper way to start the new year of 2026! A nice glass of Spanish tempranillo elicits this for me. And, how about a tempranillo from a leading Spanish wine producer well regarded in the U.S. market year after year for under $10?  Imported by Pernod Ricard USA, the 2021 Campo Viejo Tempranillo drinks well above its price point.

Like other tempranillo wines priced in the $35-40 range, this wine is both sophisticated and elegant. However, it is a simpler and more approachable wine than its heavyweight, big power siblings.

Tempranillo is a classic red grape of both Spain and Portugal, yet it is considered Spain's signature red. "Tempra" means early, noting its earlier harvesting dates and times in relation to other red grapes in Spain. Affordability and quality is the name of the game with tempranillo. With bright red fruit such as ripe cherries, plum, and a touch of strawberry on the nose and on the palate, I consider tempranillo as the perfect accompaniment for consumption on a motorcycle road trip. Or, why not just sip it on the porch, in the backyard,  or near your fireplace? 

The wine itself has a touch of softer tannins with a bit of dusty earthiness. Traditional oak aging adds vanilla, spice, and cedar on the nose and palate, giving depth without overwhelming the fruit. The result is a medium-bodied, balanced wine that is both versatile and food-friendly.

Doing a carne asada or burger & chicken barbeque prior to a playoff game or on the weekends leading up to Super Bowl LX? Then, this is your wine! A cheese plate with Manchego cheese and Olives, tomato-based pastas, or roasted vegetables will rock as a food pairing with this wine, too.