- Silverstone's previous recommendations

Basa 1999

May 2000

Spain used to mean sherry to many people, especially to Brits who new no better. I was once a Brit and I knew no better either. "Ooh I love Spanish wines, they're so terribly sweet and gooey, and normally have Bristol Cream written on the labels". Ignorance is such bliss in the world of wine. I discovered the beauty of the wines of Spain long ago, but their availability and acceptance had been locked in the cellars of under-hyped-dom. Now in my search for affordable gems, I have been introduced to "Basa".

The Compania de Vinos de la Granga is owned by Telmo Rodriguez, who also serves as it's winemaker. Mr. R got his training at the University of Bordeaux and has been associated with some of the finest producers in Bordeaux and other regions of France. Rodriguez' co-pilot in the winery is Pable Vicente, who also did a tour of duty in Bordeaux. So this dynamic duo know their onions

when it comes to making premium vino. Mr. Rodrigues, like many of his contemporaries around the globe, has been itching to find unlikely grapes from his neck of the woods (Rioja) and elsewhere (in this case elsewhere in Rueda) to cultivate and bottle unlikely grape varieties.

The Sauvignon Blanc, currently doing a nifty number in New Zealand, reared it's delicious head! Mr. R. purchases it from another grower and does his magic right there in the harsh climate at the source to capture it's freshness. This is a smooth, softly, aromatic and honey tinged wine, at a deliciously affordable price.

Cheers!

Region Rueda, Spain

Grapes Sauvignon Blanc blended with Verdejo, Viura

Technical Produced in a region of intense summer heat, low rainfall, poor soil, little fertilization and no irrigation! Go figure!

Food matches Omelettes, salads, fish,or as a jolly good aperitif.

Serve Chill for 30 minutes in fridge.

Price in USA $7.99 (approx)

Best of the White Bunch

- Silverstone's previous recommendations