6 bottle level         $30 (member price $27)
95% Tempranillo, 4% Graciano, 1% Mazuelo.  14.0% ABV

Bodegas Beronia was founded by a group of friends in 1973, and has grown to be one of the leaders of Rioja a half century later, with a second winery producing Verdejo in Rueda.  They are the pioneers of “mixed barrels” (American oak staves, with French oak tops and bottoms) for increased complexity.  Beronia is the first European winery to be LEED Certified.  My sister is a LEED Certified Architect, so I understand the effort this took.  (Check out Louisa’s website: vanleerarchitecture.com)  60 year vines help explain the complexity. Black plum, black cherry, balsamic, cacao, roasted tomato, cinnamon, nutmeg.  Aged 18 months in mixed barrels, then 18 months in the bottle before release.

Food Pairing Suggestions:
This Spanish red pairs perfectly with roasted lamb cutlets and seasonal vegetables; seared tuna steaks and roasted paprika potatoes with Romesco; grilled pigeon over white truffle risotto; roast lamb dürum; olive oil and garlic marinated rib eye steaks over garlic mashed potatoes; roasted chicken breast stuffed with peppers, caramelized onions, and goat cheese; hearty lasagna bolognese made with Italian sausage and beef; classic Spanish Paella with chorizo; and Indian spiced flank steak with roasted vegetable couscous. Or simply savor a glass with Spanish cheeses like Manchego served on crostini with Serrano ham and Marcona almonds