Spain, Explained: Jumilla, Yecla, Bullas, Alicante

September 21, 2010 at 7:00 pm-8:30 pm
Location: Gordon's Fine Wine & Culinary Center
Instructor: Kristen Butke
Cost: $20 per person

Did you know that...Spain is THE most widely planted wine producing region in the world and only third in production after France and Italy?? Furthermore, Spain is composed of numerous DO's (Denominación de Origens) and DOCa's (Denominación de Origen Calificada), which are similar to the AOC's (Appellation d'origine controlees) in France. However, Spain is able to offer even MORE diversity in its wines due to more liberal wine laws, a very varied topography, and generally a more modern take on winemaking. Basically they're newer to the world of quality wine production, and are doing amazing things at every level - values from Jumilla and Toro, bubbles from Penedes, austere Priorats (the "Bordeaux's" of Spain, will you)...the list goes on...

 

A different wine professional will be teaching each class. The instructors will use maps and other literature to explain numerous elements of each region including history, climate, viticulture, vinification, terroir, and Spanish wine law. Lest us forget the tasting! Five to eight wines will be featured in each class. (Special discounts will apply.)

 

ALSO, Solea Restaurant, our neighbors over on Moody Street, have been gracious enough to provide some Spanish tapas that you can enjoy with these wines. (This is not a formal pairing or full dinner) However you should check out Solea for drinks, dinner, or both! It's a great atmosphere with superb customer service and excellent food.

 

Featured tapas:

Croquetas de Bacalao

Codfish Croquettes w/ Idiazabal Cheese Fondue

 

Classes can be purchased individually at $20, as 3-class packages for $55 (1st half, 2nd half) or $105 for the 6-class package.

 

Dates and classes listed below (6 consecutive Tuesdays)

 

Sept 7 - Basque, Penedes

Sept 14 - Campo de Borja, Calatayud, La Mancha

Sept 21 - Jumilla, Yecla, Bullas, Alicante

Sept 28 - Ribera del Duero, Toro, Valdeorras

Oct 5 - Priorat, Montsant, Tarragona

Oct 12 - Rioja, Cigales

 

For all culinary center events after 6 PM, we ask that you park in the fenced-in lot behind the culinary center off of Prospect St.  You can enter the culinary center through the doors under the maroon awning.  If you park in the Main St lot, you will be asked to move your vehicle. Thanks in advance for your cooperation.