We’re returning to Spain’s Rioja wine region again for another sip of Tempranillo. This time the wine is 100% Tempranillo, once again made by Campo Viejo. In anticipation of warming weather this tasting comes with two cocktail recipes using Tempranillo that are commonly enjoyed in Spain. Both are easier to make than sangria, not as boozy and perfect for a gathering either friends on a warm afternoon. We received this wine as a tasting sample.
Campo Viejo is a large winery located in Logroño, which sits within Rioja Alta just about in the middle of La Rioja. The winery makes a wide lineup of wines including red, white, rosé and sparkling wine.
The wine we’re sipping today is 100% Tempranillo is sourced from vineyards throughout the region, fermented in stainless steel and aged for four months in American oak barriques (225 liters), then bottled. The relatively short aging means this wine is intended to be enjoyed within a few years of harvest. It’s exactly the kind of red wine to use in wine cocktails.
2022 Campo Viejo Tempranillo, Rioja DOCa — medium ruby with subtle dark fruit aromas. Flavors include dark fruit, dried tobacco and earth with grippy tannins in a just-medium body. 13% abv. SRP $13
The aromas and flavors are not overly generous, but it is very pleasant drinking and easy to enjoy with food. Now for some cocktails:
Campo Spritz (inspired by Tinto de Verano)
Ingredients
- 4 oz Campo Viejo Tempranillo
- 4 oz lemon-lime soda or club soda
- Ice
- Lemon or orange slices for garnish
Method
- Fill the glass with ice
- Add wine and soda, stir gently and add garnish
I used carbonated mineral water with natural citrus flavors and an orange slice for garnish. Very refreshing and even more enjoyable when I added a squeeze of orange juice.
Campomocho (Campo Viejo’s version of a Kalimotxo or Calimocho from the Basque Country)
Ingredients
- 4 oz Campo Viejo Tempranillo
- 4 oz cola
- Ice
- Lemon or lime slices
Method
- Fill the glass with ice
- Pour wine and cola, stir gently and add garnish
I used Coca-Cola and with a lemon slice for garnish. Hmm, this wasn’t as enjoyable as the Campo Spritz. I didn’t enjoy the combination of wine and cola flavors. Refreshing, though.
Both cocktails are very easy to make and very low in alcohol — both very good things on a hot afternoon when you’re visiting with friends and snacking.
Thanks to Calhoun & Company Communications for organizing our tasting.
Cheers!
