A Spanish Feast For The Senses
An unforgettable Spanish gastronomic journey with Familia Fernandez Rivera at Taberna del Haro restaurant in Boston. Taberna owner Kristie expertly paired delectable tapas with an exceptional wine lineup, resulting in a truly divine culinary experience.
Course 1 : tabla de ibéricos cured Iberian meats, sheep cheese, pan con tomate with El Vinculo Alejairen Crianza 2020
Course 2: Sotas oyster mushrooms, quail egg, garlic-parsley oil with two wines : Condado De Haza 2020 & Condado De Haza 2005
Course 3: Txistorra grilled skinny Basque sausages, salt cod brandada a la plancha with Dehesa La Granja 2019 & Tinto Pesquera Reserva 2019
Course 4: Faldq grilled skirt steak, grilled seasonal vegetables with romesco sauce with Dehesa La Granja 2002
Course 5: Trufas Porrera - house-made dark chocolate truffles, grilled bread, organic EVOO, cacoa, sea salt. which paired beautifully with the 2002 Dehesa
Read my previous article on the above wines detailed tasting notes: Masterclass Familia Fernandez Rivera. We were treated to two exceptional older vintages of Cold de Haza 2005 and Dehesa La Granja 2002
Condado De Haza 2005 is a distinguished red wine from the Ribera del Duero region, expertly crafted to reflect the unique terroir of the area. It boasts a deep ruby color with garnet hues, indicating its maturity. On the nose, it reveals a captivating bouquet of ripe dark fruits, including blackberries, black cherries, and hints of plum. These fruit aromas are beautifully intertwined with notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and delicate spices such as clove and cinnamon, imparted during its aging process in French and American oak barrels. Subtle floral hints and earthy undertones add complexity to the aromatic profile.
In the mouth, the wine is full-bodied with a velvety texture, showcasing a harmonious balance between fruit and acidity. The flavors mirror the aromas, featuring luscious dark fruit notes mingled with chocolate, leather, and a touch of minerality. Its well-structured tannins provide a firm backbone and contribute to its age-worthiness. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving behind lingering notes of dark fruit and spice, inviting another sip. This wine pairs wonderfully with grilled lamb, hearty stews, or aged cheeses, making it ideal for both special occasions and enjoying with good food and friends. Overall, it showcases the richness and depth characteristic of exceptional Ribera del Duero wines.
Dehesa La Granja 2002 is a refined wine that reflects the exceptional craftsmanship of the Castilla y León region. This wine presents a deep, intense ruby color with subtle garnet edges, indicative of its maturity.
On the nose, it offers a complex bouquet with prominent aromas of ripe dark fruits such as blackberries and plums, intertwined with notes of dried herbs and floral hints. The aging process imparts additional layers of elegance, featuring warm spices like cinnamon, vanilla, and a touch of sweet tobacco, along with earthy undertones and a whisper of leather. A velvety mouthfeel and well-rounded tannins that contribute to its sophistication. The flavor profile echoes the nose, revealing a rich tapestry of dark fruit, spices, and a hint of mocha, balanced by vibrant acidity that enhances its structure.
The finish is long and lingering, with a delightful combination of fruit and spice, leaving a memorable impression. This wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses, making it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions. A wine that exemplifies age and elegance, a testament to the region's terroir and winemaking tradition.
Our smiles say it all: pure food and wine bliss. A heartfelt thank you to Veronica for bringing us all together.
Watch the full reel on Instagram Feast For The Senses