For deep, rich red wines, explore the Priorat region of Spain. Here, Grenache and Carignan top the production charts, resulting in beauties that perfectly pair with fall steaks and stews. White lovers savor the Rias Baixas region’s Albariño varietals, and we especially love the story behind the Santiago Ruiz label. Read more about our Spanish faves and come find them at Phoenicia.

Priorat Region

This region is known for its deep, rich red wines. Priorat is one of only two wine regions in Spain to qualify as a Denomination of Origin (DO), the highest qualification level for a wine region according to Spanish wine regulations, alongside the more well-known Rioja. Grenache and Carignan are the top two red grapes in terms of production in the region, and are typically both blended with other grapes to produce Priorat’s powerhouse reds.

Our favorite, Rotllan Torra, is a blend of 35% Grenache, 35% Carignan and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. Pair it with a beautiful rib-eye steak or hearty beef stew this fall.

Rias Baixas Region

Located near the Atlantic Ocean in the northwestern part of Spain, over 90% of the wines produced in this region are white, predominantly using the Albariño grape varietal. Blends with heavy concentrations of this grape represent Spain’s standard of white wine across the country.

Winemaker Santiago Ruiz is referred to as “the father of Albarino” as he claims to be the first to harvest it decades ago. His 2013 version is a lively white that offers lots of juicy pear and citrus fruit with a soothing mineral finish. We especially love the story of the label as it’s the exact drawing that Ruiz’ daughter had scribbled to direct guests to the winery for her wedding reception. Papa decided to use it as a memorable wine label.