All things wineSeptember 29, 2023September 29, 2023 by Simmi Manghwani

10 Best Red Wines for Cooking Your Heart Out

Cooking with wine adds a touch of sophistication and depth to your culinary creations. For wine lovers in Singapore, Benchmark Wines is here to guide you on a delightful journey through the realm of red wines perfect for cooking your heart out. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two or hosting a dinner party, the right red wine can elevate your dishes to new heights.

In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 red wines that will inspire your inner chef and make your taste buds sing.

1. Merlot: The Versatile Choice

Merlot is often celebrated for its smooth and mellow character, making it an excellent choice for cooking. Its low tannin content ensures it won’t overpower your dishes, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of ingredients. Merlot is a popular choice for red wine reductions, enhancing the flavors of sauces for dishes like beef stroganoff or coq au vin.

2. Cabernet Sauvignon: Bold and Flavorful

Cabernet Sauvignon, with its bold and robust profile, adds depth and complexity to your recipes. It’s an ideal choice for dishes that feature hearty meats like steaks, roasts, and lamb. The rich fruitiness and well-defined tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon create sumptuous sauces and marinades that complement your culinary creations.

3. Pinot Noir: Elegant and Light

If you’re looking for a red wine that brings elegance and lightness to your dishes, Pinot Noir is your go-to choice. Its delicate flavors and silky texture make it perfect for recipes that highlight poultry, pork, or mushrooms. Use Pinot Noir to create a sophisticated reduction for dishes like coq au vin blanc or mushroom risotto.

4. Zinfandel: A Spicy Twist

Zinfandel, known for its bold and spicy notes, can infuse your dishes with a tantalizing kick. It’s the ideal choice for recipes that feature BBQ sauce, chili, or spicy sausages. The vibrant fruitiness and peppery undertones of Zinfandel can balance out the heat in your dishes, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

5. Shiraz: The Meat Lover’s Dream

Syrah (known as Shiraz in some regions) is a powerhouse wine that complements red meat dishes exceptionally well. Its bold, dark fruit flavors and spicy notes make it a natural choice for recipes featuring beef, venison, or lamb. Syrah-based sauces add depth and intensity to your dishes, such as beef stew or slow-cooked short ribs.

6. Malbec: A South American Delight

Hailing from Argentina, Malbec offers a unique character with its dark, fruity profile and hints of cocoa. It’s an excellent choice for recipes that include grilled meats, empanadas, or chorizo. Malbec can add a touch of South American flair to your dishes, enhancing their authenticity and flavor.

7. Sangiovese: Italian Charm

Sangiovese is the heart and soul of Italian wines, making it an essential ingredient in many Italian recipes. Its bright acidity and cherry-like flavors work wonders in dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, lasagna, and osso buco. Sangiovese enhances the overall dining experience, bringing out the true essence of Italian cuisine.

8. Grenache: Mediterranean Elegance

Grenache, with its soft tannins and red fruit notes, brings Mediterranean elegance to your kitchen. It pairs exceptionally well with Mediterranean dishes like ratatouille, paella, and grilled vegetables. The wine’s versatility and subtle spiciness can enhance the flavors of these iconic dishes.

9. Tempranillo: Spanish Flair

For those who crave Spanish flavors, Tempranillo is the wine of choice. Its earthy and leathery undertones, coupled with dark fruit notes, make it ideal for Spanish dishes such as paella, chorizo stew, and tapas. The wine’s distinct character adds depth and authenticity to these culinary creations.

10. Bordeaux: Timeless Elegance

Bordeaux wines, renowned for their timeless elegance and rich history, can also be a fantastic choice for cooking. Bordeaux reds typically offer a well-balanced combination of fruitiness, tannins, and structure. They are versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes, making them a valuable addition to your culinary toolkit.

Get Them All at Benchmark Wines

Exploring the world of red wines for cooking is a rewarding journey for any wine lover in Singapore. Benchmark Wines, one of the best wine shops, invites you to experiment with these 10 exceptional red wines to elevate your culinary creations. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or hosting a dinner party, the right red wine can make all the difference, adding depth, flavor, and a touch of sophistication to your dishes.

Keep reading: Decantation of Wine: Between Bottle and Glass

All things wineSeptember 20, 2023September 20, 2023 by Simmi Manghwani

Decantation of Wine: Between Bottle and Glass

One term that is surely overused in wine circles is “decanting wine.” But what exactly is it, and why should you care about it?

Let’s talk about that special pit stop between the bottle and your glass – the art of decantation.

Best Wine Shops in Singapore — best-wine-shops-in-singapore

What Does it Mean to Decant the Wine?

Decanting wine isn’t about simply pouring it from one container to another; it’s a meticulous process that involves separating the liquid from any sediment that may have settled at the bottom of the bottle. This sediment, while not harmful, can impart undesirable flavors and textures to your wine.

To decant wine properly, you’ll need a decanter—a glass vessel with an easy-pour neck. There are various types and sizes available, from the elegant swan and cornett to the classic duck and standard decanters. The choice of decanter depends on your aesthetic preference and the wine you plan to decant.

The Threefold Benefits of Decanting Wine

Separating Sediment from Liquid

The primary purpose of decanting is to remove sediment from the wine. This is especially crucial for red wines, particularly older ones and vintage ports. Sediment doesn’t harm you, but it can make your wine taste unpleasant.

Enhancing Flavor through Aeration

Aeration, or allowing a wine to “breathe,” is a key aspect of decantation. By introducing oxygen to the wine, decanting softens the tannins and releases trapped gases. This process can awaken the flavors and aromas that were dormant in the bottle, elevating your wine-drinking experience.

Wine Rescue in Case of a Broken Cork

Sometimes, a cork may break, releasing unwanted solid matter into your wine. Decanting can act as a safety net. As you pour the wine into another vessel, both the cork and sediment will gather near the neck of the bottle, making it easier to filter out any small cork fragments.

Which Wines Should Be Decanted?

The good news is that most wines can benefit from at least a brief decantation to promote aeration. However, certain wines reap the most significant rewards from this practice and must be decanted to get the best results, this includes:

Malbec
Shiraz (Syrah)

Wines That Don’t Need Decanting

The only wines that shouldn’t be decanted are sparkling wines like Champagne. These wines thrive when they maintain their effervescence, which decanting, and aeration can diminish.

Decant the Wine, Step by Step

Now that you’re ready to give decanting a try, here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you do it right:

Preparation: If your wine bottle has been stored horizontally, stand it upright for a full day before decanting. This allows sediment to settle at the bottom.

Opening the Bottle: Use a corkscrew to open your bottle, ensuring you do it with care.

The Pour: Tilt the neck of the bottle toward the decanter and pour the wine slowly. Keep the bottle at an angle of less than 45 degrees to prevent a rush of wine that might disturb the sediment.

Watch for Sediment: Be vigilant for any sediment approaching the bottle’s neck while pouring. If you spot any, stop pouring temporarily, tilt the bottle back upright, and continue once the sediment settles.

Leave a Bit Behind: Finish pouring the wine, leaving about half an ounce in the bottle along with the sediment.

PS: Decanted wine can be enjoyed immediately or within the next 18 hours without concern of over-decanting.

How Long Should You Decant?

When it comes to the timing of decanting, the rule of thumb is to let your wine breathe, but not too much. For red wines, ranging from bold Cabernets to elegant Pinot Noirs, a decanting time of 20 minutes to 2 hours can work wonders, with the duration often dictated by the wine’s style and age.

White and Rosé wines, known for their refreshing qualities, typically benefit from up to 30 minutes of aeration, but it’s always wise to consider the specific conditions. Sparkling wines, those effervescent delights, can also benefit from up to 30 minutes of decanting, under certain circumstances.

Get Your Wine Here

Did we just give you some crazy wine cravings? Get your favorite bottle of wine delivered at your doorstep by one of the best wine shops in Singapore, Benchmark Wines.

Do not forget to Decant that baby! 🍷⏳

Keep Reading: 9 Viognier Wines That Are Darling to Benchmark Wines

All things wineSeptember 14, 2023September 14, 2023 by Simmi Manghwani

9 Viognier Wines That Are Darling to Benchmark Wines

Viognier is a white wine grape known for satisfying wine enthusiasts looking for something different from the more common Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Viognier wines are not your everyday wine. It’s not the shy, wallflower cousin at the wine party; it’s more like the friend who arrives fashionably late, stealing the spotlight with a burst of aromatic charm.

Let’s show you the best Viognier wines available for purchase online, right here in Singapore.

9 Amazing Viognier Wines

1. Tahbilk ‘The Tower’ MVR – Marsanne-Viognier-Roussanne 2018

Our wine journey begins with the Tahbilk winery, a historic gem in Australia. Established in 1860, Tahbilk has a reputation for producing exceptional wines, and their ‘The Tower’ MVR is no exception. This Tahbilk ‘The Tower’ MVR – Marsanne-Viognier-Roussanne 2018 is a blend of Marsanne, Viognier, and Roussanne and offers a harmonious fusion of flavors, with the Viognier adding a touch of aromatic elegance.

2. Tahbilk Viognier 2019

Staying in the Tahbilk family, the Tahbilk Viognier 2019 is a testament to the winery’s dedication to the Viognier grape. With its fragrant bouquet and vibrant palate, this Viognier is a celebration of the varietal’s essence. Tahbilk’s commitment to quality shines through in every bottle.

Tahbilk-Viognier-2019

3. Tahbilk Roussanne-Marsanne-Viognier 2017

Continuing our exploration of Tahbilk’s offerings, the Tahblisk Roussanne-Marsanne-Viognier 2017 showcases the winery’s expertise in blending and creating something that’s an exceptional craft. This wine, with its complex layers and well-balanced acidity, exemplifies Tahbilk’s mastery of creating harmonious wine blends.

4. Soumah ‘Single Vineyard Botrytis’ Viognier 2020

Let’s journey to Soumah, an Australian winery celebrated for its craftsmanship. The Soumah ‘Single Vineyard Botrytis’ Viognier 2020 is a sweet delight. The presence of botrytis, a noble root, lends this Viognier a luscious, honeyed character. It’s a testament to Soumah’s innovative winemaking techniques.

Soumah-Single-Vineyard-Botrytis-Viognier-2020

5. Soumah ‘Hexham Vineyard’ Viognier 2018

Staying with Soumah, the Soumah ‘Hexham Vineyard’ Viognier 2018 showcase their commitment to single-vineyard expressions. This wine encapsulates the essence of the Hexham Vineyard, offering a unique taste of the terroir and the Viognier grape’s full potential.

Soumah-Hexham-Vineyard-Viognier-2018

6. Soumah ‘d’Soumah’ Tutto Bianco 2019

Another gem from Soumah, the Soumah ‘d’Soumah’ Tutto Bianco 2019, is a blend of Viognier and other white varietals. This wine reflects the winery’s dedication to crafting innovative blends that are both intriguing and delicious.

Soumah-d-Soumah-Tutto-Bianco-2019

7. Macaw Creek Organic Semillon-Viognier 2016

Our wine journey takes a sustainable twist with Macaw Creek. Among their many organic creations, they offer Macaw Creek Organic Semillon-Viognier 2016 which is not only a delightful Viognier blend but also a testament to the winery’s commitment to organic practices. It’s a sip of eco-conscious luxury.

8. Misty Cove ‘Waihopai Limited Edition’ White Blend 2019

Heading over to New Zealand, we discover Misty Cove and their Misty Cove ‘Waihopai Limited Edition’ White Blend 2019. While not exclusively Viognier, this blend incorporates Viognier to add aromatic charm. Misty Cove is known for crafting wines that capture the essence of the Marlborough region.

Waihopai-Limited-Edition-White-Blend-2019

9. Tim Smith Wines ‘Eden Valley’ Viognier 2021

Our journey concludes with Tim Smith Wines and their ‘Eden Valley’ Viognier 2021. Tim Smith is renowned for his expertise with this varietal. This Viognier captures the pristine beauty of the Eden Valley, showcasing the winemaker’s dedication to the craft.

Tim-Smith-Wines-Eden-Valley-Viognier-2021

Summing up this guide, we hope that we satisfied your VEE-OWN-YAY knowledge cravings. The above-mentioned 9 Viognier wines are from the best family-owned wineries that are reputed for their expertise and knowledge in the wine making industry. If you are planning to buy wine online in Singapore, consider Benchmark Wines which is renowned as one of the best wine shops in Singapore.

Further reading: Grenache Wine: Say Hi to the Sun-kissed

All things wineSeptember 8, 2023September 8, 2023 by gaurvaibhav

From Near-Extinction to Palate Perfection: Viognier

While Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc have had their share of the limelight, there exists a gem that’s quietly been making its mark – Viognier.

Once teetering on the brink of obscurity, this white wine grape variety has not only made a resurgence but has also captivated the palates of wine lovers worldwide. It’s the kind of comeback story that even Rocky Balboa would applaud.

So, let’s go beyond Chardonnay in the whites and explore some Viognier…

Buy Wine Online In Singapore — Buy-Wine-Online-In-Singapore

The Past and Present

By the 1960s, Viognier’s presence was fading, with only a few acres remaining in the Northern Rhône. Yet, against all odds, it made a triumphant comeback. Today, it thrives in various corners of the world, including California, Virginia, and Australia. In France, it expands its reach within the Rhône Valley and further west into Southern France. Its journey from near-extinction to global prominence is a testament to its unique qualities.

What is Viognier Wine?

Derived from the grape variety named Viognier, Viognier Wine boasts an intriguing history. In the Northern Rhône, it often hides behind the names of appellations like Condrieu and Château-Grillet. The latter, a single producer, lends its name to an entire appellation.

Interestingly, Viognier collaborates with the red grape Syrah in Côte-Rôtie, where it can constitute up to 20% of blends, although it usually plays a supporting role to Syrah’s brilliance.

Taste

Viognier exudes notes of stone fruit, from apricot to nectarine, often accompanied by hints of citrus oil. A touch of honeyed sweetness graces its profile, amplified in sweeter renditions like late-harvest Viognier.

As it matures, nutty nuances may emerge. Blended with other grapes, like Roussanne and Grenache Blanc, it adds a savory layer to the palate.

Palate

Viognier is an enigma that appeals to various preferences. Its ability to traverse the spectrum from lively to creamy allows producers to craft wines that mirror both the terroir and their vision. Oak aging further broadens its horizon that often entices Chardonnay enthusiasts.

Food Pairing

Pairing Viognier with food requires finesse, honoring its floral notes and medium acidity. From roasted chicken to seafood delights like lobster and shrimp, Viognier’s subtle bitterness harmonizes beautifully.

Cheeses like Gruyere and herbaceous spices like tarragon find companionship in this wine.

Dishes that balance fruit flavors and creaminess, like chicken tagine with apricots and almonds, elevate the Viognier experience.

Buying Guide

Alcohol by volume (ABV) of Viognier ranges from 13.5% to 15%, impacting the wine’s overall taste.

Lighter Viogniers around 14% ABV offer a leaner profile, while higher ABV styles provide a richer, bolder character.

Additionally, pay attention to the winemaker’s choice of oak aging. New oak imparts creaminess and spice, while neutral or stainless-steel aging highlights floral and tropical notes.

Go Vee-own-yay

As you explore white wines, don’t miss the chance to discover the elegance of Viognier. This white wine, with its roots in history and branches reaching across the globe, promises a journey of flavors and aromas that will leave an indelible mark on your wine-loving heart.

Explore the wide variety of Viognier at Benchmark Wines, all the way from reputed family-owned vineries and get $30 OFF on your first offer.

Cheers to uncorking a world of wine wonder!🥂

Further reading: Grenache Wine: Say Hi to the Sun-kissed

All things wineAugust 25, 2023August 25, 2023 by Simmi Manghwani

Sip, Savor, Repeat: The Art of Wine Tasting

In the world of gastronomy, few experiences can rival the refined pleasure of wine tasting. A symphony of flavors, aromas, and textures dance upon the palate, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of cultures and terroirs that produce the absolute nectar, wine.

As wine lovers all over Singapore seek to elevate their appreciation for this timeless elixir, we unravel the art of wine tasting.

Let the tastin’ begin…

Wine Tasting is…

An engaging sensory experience where individuals evaluate and appreciate various aspects of wine, including its appearance, aroma, taste, and finish. It involves using sight, smell, and taste to discern the complexities and nuances of different wines, helping enthusiasts understand their flavors, origins, and characteristics. Wine tasting is both an art and a skill, often practiced by sommeliers, wine professionals, and enthusiasts to deepen their understanding and enjoyment of this timeless beverage.

Sight: The Elegance of Appearance

Imagine holding a glass of wine up to the light, allowing it to cast a radiant glow upon your surroundings. The visual experience of wine tasting begins with its appearance. The hue, clarity, and viscosity provide valuable insights into the wine’s age, grape variety, and even winemaking techniques.

Red wines present a captivating spectrum of colors, from the deep and regal garnet of mature Bordeaux to the youthful and playful shades of a Pinot Noir. White wines, on the other hand, may dazzle with the golden warmth of a well-aged Chardonnay or the pale, glistening straw of a delicate Riesling. These visual cues are the first whispers of the story that the wine is about to tell.

Aroma: The Symphony of Scents

Once the wine is swirled in the glass, it releases a captivating medley of aromas that can transport you across continents and evoke memories long forgotten. Every wine has its own olfactory signature, a fragrance that carries the essence of the grapes, the soil, and the winemaking process.

Inhale deeply and you might be greeted by the enchanting aroma of ripe berries in a Syrah from the Rhône Valley, the floral notes of a Gewürztraminer from Alsace, or the smoky, oaky undertones of a bold Cabernet Sauvignon. These aromas are the storytellers, unraveling the tale of the vineyard’s terroir and the craftsmanship that transformed grapes into liquid art.

Taste: A Palate’s Playground

As the wine touches your lips, your palate becomes a canvas where the wine’s symphony of flavors unfolds. The initial taste is just the beginning, as the wine evolves and dances across your taste buds, revealing layers of complexity that can vary from subtle to sensational.

Consider the interplay of sweetness and acidity in a Riesling, where the tangy citrus notes are elegantly balanced by a touch of residual sugar. Or savor the velvety texture of a Merlot as it envelops your palate with its soft tannins, gradually revealing flavors of dark cherries, cocoa, and a hint of vanilla. These flavors are the storytellers’ allies, providing insights into the grape’s journey from vine to bottle.

Finish: The Echoes of Elegance

The final act of the wine-tasting experience is the finish, the lingering aftertaste that gracefully bids adieu to your palate. A long and harmonious finish is often the hallmark of a well-crafted wine, leaving a trail of flavors that continue to unfold even after the last drop has disappeared.

Picture a Cabernet Franc leaving behind a trail of blackberry and peppery spice or a Chardonnay’s finish resonating with the memory of buttery notes and a touch of minerality. This lingering presence is the wine’s farewell, a parting gift that leaves you with a sense of satisfaction and anticipation for the next sip.

Read more about wines: Does Ageing of Wine Really Matter?

Keep Tastin’

Wine tasting is a sensory journey that intertwines culture, history, and craftsmanship into every sip. With the digital age redefining the way we shop; Benchmark Wines stands as a trailblazer to allow you to buy wine online in Singapore. Through a user-friendly online platform, wine enthusiasts across Singapore can explore an extensive assortment of wines that come from renowned family-owned vineries.

All things wineAugust 16, 2023August 16, 2023 by Simmi Manghwani

Chardonnay vs Sauvignon Blanc: A Clash of Grapes

In the realm of white wines, two stalwarts stand tall, each with their distinct personality and allure. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, the twin pillars of white wines, have been captivating wine enthusiasts for generations.

Welcome to the ultimate grape smackdown, where we pit the ‘Queen of Elegance’ against the ‘Wild Child of Whites.’

Although often heroes for most white wines, these two grapes possess notably different characteristics.

So, let’s not waste another second wondering and have a closer look at Chardonnay vs Sauvignon Blanc.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay, often described as the “queen” of white wines, emanates elegance and sophistication while being the most widely planted grape varieties globally.

Regions

Chardonnay vines have found homes across the globe, each region leaving its unique imprint on this versatile varietal. Burgundy, France, holds its birthplace, producing elegant and timeless Chardonnays. California’s landscapes contribute to rich and full-bodied offerings, while Australia adds its vibrant flair to the mix. Even South Africa joins the chorus, crafting distinct expressions in its cooler pockets.

Taste

Chardonnay presents itself as a dry, robust white wine, boasting primary fruit notes reminiscent of apple, yellow melon, and starfruit. This varietal stands out for its distinctive aging process, often imparting creamy, buttery, and even vanilla-like undertones, owing to its frequent exposure to oak barrels.

When exploring Chardonnay options, you’ll encounter two distinct styles that can be easily differentiated based on their production methods: oak-aged versus unoaked. While it’s true that any white wine subjected to oak aging can acquire velvety, vanilla-infused characteristics, this is a rarity due to the prevalent preference for light, zesty, and floral profiles in most white wines.

Food Pairings

Chardonnay’s perfect companions lean toward the realm of creamy and subtle flavors. Imagine pairing it with dishes like chicken accompanied by a velvety chardonnay-mustard sauce, delectable crab cakes, succulent lobster, shrimp and linguini, or a timeless French-style quiche. For those abstaining from dairy or meat, seek out options featuring luscious sauces crafted from almond milk, cauliflower, or nut-based creations like cashew cream or tahini.

Related – One Wine, Many Faces: How Versatile Are Chardonnay Wines?

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc, the “wild child” of white wines is the signature wine grape in New Zealand.

Regions

The Loire Valley in France offers a blend of minerality and citrusy brightness, while New Zealand’s Marlborough region is synonymous with its explosive tropical fruit character. California’s expressions range from herbaceous to tropical, showcasing the diversity of this grape’s adaptability.

Taste

Sauvignon Blanc, a dry and light-bodied wine, bursts with vibrant “super green” aromas. Depending on the climate, you’ll encounter savory notes like fresh-cut grass and gooseberry, or fruitier tones of grapefruit and passion fruit. Notably, premium Sauvignon Blanc, like from Bordeaux’s Pessac-Leognan or Washington’s Yakima Valley, may also exhibit creamy oak-aged complexities.

Food Pairings

Beyond the quintessential goat cheese, Sauvignon Blanc harmonizes delightfully with fish tacos, gyro wraps, and vibrant tabouli salad. The marriage extends to Mediterranean-inspired meats adorned with zesty lemon, capers, and olives, as well as a comforting chicken pot pie. Moreover, this varietal finds its melodic match in Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, especially when the dish boasts the vibrant note of cilantro.

Pair your wines with pizza like a pro – Cheers and Cheese: 8 Evergreen Wine and Pizza Pairing

Where Can You Buy These Whites?

No matter the differences, both Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are a must-try when it comes to exploring white wines. One of the best wine shops in Singapore, Benchmark Wines offers a wide variety of both Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc that come from the reputed family-owned vineries and enables you to buy wine online across Singapore.

Further reading – The Distinct Charm of Tempranillo Wines

Discover 6 Tempranillo Wines Priced Below $35

All things wineAugust 9, 2023August 9, 2023 by Simmi Manghwani

Discover 6 Best Tempranillo Wines Priced Below $35

Being the most popular grape of Spain, Tempranillo is a craving for many wine enthusiasts.

With Benchmark Wines embracing the distinct charm of Tempranillo wines forever, today we unveil 6 delightful Tempranillo wines that you could enjoy for as low as $35.

Let’s see what’s there…

6 Tempranillo Wines Under $35

1. The Vinita Wines ‘La Mesa’ Tempranillo 2017

The Vinita Wines ‘La Mesa’ Tempranillo 2017 embodies the essence of Tempranillo, delivering a captivating blend of ripe berries and delicate oak nuances. As you sip, the palate unfolds with a harmonious interplay of rich fruitiness, subtle spices, and a touch of vanilla, making each sip a delightful journey into the heart of this classic varietal.

2. Tim Adams ‘Mr. Mick’ Tempranillo 2017

Crafted with precision, Tim Adams ‘Mr. Mick’ Tempranillo 2017 showcases a seamless fusion of tradition and innovation. The 2017 vintage greets your palate with a symphony of red berries and subtle hints of spice, dancing gracefully on the tongue. Embrace the modern twist on a classic Tempranillo, as ‘Mr. Mick’ invites you to relish the timeless essence of this varietal, all while offering an exceptional value that Benchmark Wines proudly presents to wine enthusiasts across Singapore.

3. Altos R Tempranillo Rioja 2021

Embark on a sensory expedition through Spain’s Rioja region with Altos R Tempranillo 2021. This youthful vintage captures the spirit of the land, boasting vibrant red fruit flavors and a touch of earthiness that pays homage to its origins. The wine’s charming character is balanced by a subtle hint of oak, resulting in a harmonious symphony of taste and texture. Elevate your wine collection with this Spanish gem, a testament to the Tempranillo’s timeless appeal.

4. Paxton Organic Tempranillo 2019

Experience the purity of Paxton Organic Tempranillo 2019, a wine that embodies the essence of sustainable viticulture. Grown organically, this vintage is a true testament to the harmony between nature and winemaking. With each sip, you’ll be greeted by a burst of luscious dark fruits, complemented by a subtle hint of spice. The Paxton Organic Tempranillo encapsulates the richness of the earth and the dedication to crafting a wine that resonates with both your palate and your values. Discover a conscious choice that indulges your senses.

5. Bodegas Penafiel ‘Baron de Filar’ Roble 2018 [Tempranillo-Merlot-Cabernet]

Indulge in the artful blend of Bodegas Peñafiel ‘Barón de Filar’ Roble 2018, a masterful symphony composed of Tempranillo, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. This exceptional trio dances on the palate with rich, dark fruits intertwined seamlessly with the softness of Merlot and the structure of Cabernet. Aged to perfection, the Roble offers a velvety texture and a bouquet of subtle oak and spice notes.

6. Tim Adams ‘The Fergus’ Grenache Tempranillo Malbec 2016

Prepare to be captivated by the symphonic blend of Tim Adams ‘The Fergus’ Grenache Tempranillo Malbec 2016. This triumphant fusion of Grenache, Tempranillo, and Malbec showcases the winemaker’s virtuosity. With every sip, experience a chorus of red and black fruits harmonizing elegantly, complemented by delicate hints of spice. The wine’s maturity, earned through careful aging, is evident in its complexity and velvety texture.

Get’em Only at Benchmark Wines

Ready to embark on a journey of exquisite flavors and unparalleled value? Conveniently bring these Tempranillos right at your doorstep with Benchmark Wine’s seamless wine delivery Singapore.

Discover a world of exceptional Tempranillo wines and more, curated just for you by the one of the best wine shops in Singapore, Benchmark Wines. Explore our collection and uncork moments of indulgence today.

Cheers to memorable evenings and delightful sips!

Love wines? Read more – What are Fortified Wines | Explore with Benchmark Wines

All things wineAugust 2, 2023August 2, 2023 by Simmi Manghwani

The Distinct Charm of Tempranillo Wines

Embarking on a tantalizing red wine journey, seeking savory delights?

Meet Tempranillo, Spain’s prized grape!

Akin to Cabernet’s structure and Carignan’s meatiness, it’s a unique experience. Youthful allure, with a dash of fruitiness, matures into an oak-aged symphony of dust, tobacco, and leather flavors – a treat craved by wine enthusiasts!

Did you know that Tempranillo is the most popular grape variety in Spain.

In this blog, we are going to take a toll on Tempranillo wines and see how they are different from other wines.

Let’s temper in…

What is Tempranillo Wine?

At its core, Tempranillo is a remarkable red grape variety that forms the foundation of some of Spain’s most renowned wines. Its name derives from the Spanish word “temprano,” which means “early.” This refers to the grape’s characteristic of ripening early in the season, ensuring a fresh and vibrant wine.

Tempranillo is the noble grape of Spain, predominantly grown in the regions of Rioja and Ribera del Duero. However, its popularity has spread beyond Spain’s borders, and today, it thrives in wine regions around the world, including Portugal, Argentina, and the United States.

Fun fact – Spotting Tempranillo vines in the vineyard is a breeze, thanks to their distinctive jagged and deep-lobed leaves.

Where Does Tempranillo Wine Come From?

In Spain, the grape has flourished for centuries, particularly in the Rioja and Ribera del Duero regions.

In Rioja, where tradition meets innovation, Tempranillo finds its voice in both traditional oak-aged wines and modern, fruit-forward expressions. On the other hand, Ribera del Duero showcases Tempranillo’s full-bodied character with bold fruit flavors, structured tannins, and extended aging potential.

Beyond Spain’s borders, Portugal’s Douro Valley boasts an impressive variety of Tempranillo, known locally as “Tinta Roriz” or “Aragonez.” Argentinean Tempranillo offers a New World twist, combining rich fruitiness with supple tannins. In the United States, California, Oregon, and Washington have also embraced the grape, producing exceptional expressions of Tempranillo.

Also read – Does Ageing of Wine Really Matter?

What Does Tempranillo Taste Like?

The primary flavor of Tempranillo involves cherry, dried fig, cedar, tobacco, and dill.

This red gem tends to be medium to full-bodied, showcasing a harmonious balance of fruitiness and acidity. Depending on the aging process, Tempranillo wines can offer a wide spectrum of tasting experiences. Younger wines boast vibrant fruitiness and approachability, while oak-aged ones display added complexity with notes of vanilla and spice.

What Food Pairs Well with Tempranillo?

Pairing Tempranillo with the right cuisine elevates the entire dining experience. This wine’s versatility makes it an ideal companion for an array of dishes.

a) Classic Pairings: The rich and fruit-driven nature of Tempranillo complements traditional Spanish dishes such as paella, tapas, and chorizo. The wine’s vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of these dishes, creating a harmonious balance.

b) Red Meat Delights: Tempranillo’s structured tannins and dark fruit flavors harmonize wonderfully with grilled steaks, lamb chops, and hearty stews.

c) Cheese Affairs: For cheese enthusiasts, consider pairing Tempranillo with Manchego, aged cheddar, or gouda for a delightful taste sensation.

d) Exotic Flavors: Surprisingly, Tempranillo can also complement spicier cuisines like Indian or Mexican dishes. Its fruitiness balances the heat and complexity of these meals.

Where Can You Get the Best of Tempranillo?

If you are in Singapore and looking to try Tempranillo wines without taking a risk, you must have a look at the vast collection of Benchmark Wines. Known for maintaining the legacy of popular family-owned wineries, none of the wines at Benchmark Wines comes from an unknown back making it one of the best wine shops in Singapore.

Summing up…

As we conclude our exploration, we hope you’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the alluring world of Tempranillo wines. From its Spanish wine roots to its delightful flavors and versatile food pairings, Tempranillo is truly a wine gem worth cherishing.

At Benchmark Wines, we take immense pleasure in curating a collection of exceptional Tempranillo wines and offering them to wine lovers all over Singapore. Whether you’re an avid enthusiast or a curious beginner, we are here to guide you in finding the perfect Tempranillo to elevate your wine experiences.

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