Bodegas Solar Viejo

Bodegas Solar Viejo is situated in the Rioja Alavesa, the northernmost sub-region of Rioja. Its high-altitude vineyards lie in the foothills of the Sierra de Cantabria. The area produces a refreshing, edgy style of Rioja that is highly prized. Nestled in the medieval village of Laguardia, Solar Viejo has over 75 years of experience crafting highquality Rioja wines in the region.

$ 21 $ 126

As the name suggests, this white Rioja was fermented and aged for six months in French and American oak barrels giving pretty hints of vanilla. Viura, Tempranillo Blanco, and Chardonnay make up the blend. The 2021 is smooth and rounded with tangy citrus, apple flavours. Finishes dry and crisp. 2023-2025– jb

12.5%

Green almond, herbal, lemon custard

Lime, apple, vanilla, green herbs, 2.10

Salt-baked sea bream

$ 22 $ 132

The Orube cuvée from Bodegas Solar Viejo is a fuller-bodied Crianza with a hint of Garnacha and Graciano blended into the Tempranillo base. The palate is amply proportioned and velvety in texture. Vanilla, butterscotch oaked flavours mingle with ripe dark fruits on the palate. Finishes fresh with ripe, muscular tannins. 2023-2030– jb

14%

Blackberry, cherry, tea leaf, nutmeg

Vanilla, butterscotch, ripe dark fruits

Grilled sirloin with pimento-stuffed green olives and red bell peppers

Staff Favourites In The Spanish Offering

Tempranillo

$ 20 $ 120

A very open, attractive Crianza-style of Rioja made from 100% Tempranillo aged for 12 months in mainly seasoned French and American oak. Fragrant black and blue fruit flavours combine with hints of vanilla, spice and chocolate. The palate is medium in body with brisk refreshing acidity, and chalky tannins. 2023-2028– jb

14%

Blueberry, blackberry, violet, chocolate

Blueberry, black cherry, vanilla, spice

Rioja-braised beef pimentón casserole with piquillo peppers and wild mushrooms

$ 25 $ 150

The Amor de Madre cuvée is a Rioja Reserva, meaning that it must age for at least three years before release. This Tempranillo-Garnacha blend spends 12 months in a mix of French and American oak barrels and a further two years in bottle. The 2018 is very harmonious, with fine-grained tannins, lively acidity and a smooth, full-bodied palate. Bright red and dark fruit echo on the nose and palate. 2023-2033–jb

14%

Red plum, cherry, almond essence, cedar

Red and dark fruit, milk chocolate, licorice

Grilled lamb chops