It’s been far too long since I last visited Spain.  In fact, it was roughly a year and a half ago (funny, it sort of seems like yesterday).  The torrid pace here at ABCFWS has kept me preoccupied with thoughts of store remodels, staff meetings and wine tasting events.  The remodels were supposed to wrap up in my neck of the woods last year.  But inevitable delays and unforeseen consequences pushed five of them into calendar year 2013. 

We just put the finishing touches on our North Port location and, without pause, I’m presently in Bradenton starting another one.  No complaints, mind you.  They’re definitely necessary and the results do speak for themselves.  The new concept is a hit with our guests and store staff alike.  It makes for a greatly improved shopping experience.

So where was I?  Oh, I was talking about returning to Spain.  Well, it’s still a couple of weeks away, but I just received the itinerary for my trip with importer Florencio Navarro of The Artisan Collection. 

Tempranillo in Rioja Alavesa

Florencio started Quality Wines of Spain back in 2003 in his home country.  The Navarro family is from Salamanca and has been in the wine business for generations.  He is part of the new guard of Spanish importers focusing on small-production, artisanal estates with an emphasis on terroir.  His portfolio comprises some 40 different producers representing 17 denominacións throughout Spain, including in Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Rueda, Campo de Borja, Calatayud and La Mancha (my visit in a nutshell). 

Florencio also imports wines from Portugal, France, Germany and South America into the US market.

We currently stock some terrific wines from The Artisan Collection, including the excellent Riojas from Bodegas Baigorri.  The trip will be a great opportunity to scout for additional selections for our Direct to You wine program.

Garnacha vines - Campo de Borja

On a side note, my new “toy” should come in handy: just picked up the new Apple iPad Mini to help with blogging and tweeting.  It’ll be a welcomed relief not to have to lug my brick-of-a-laptop with me for a change. 

As a bonus, I may have a little down time to wander a bit in Pamplona and Madrid as well. 

Until then, if I close my eyes, I can almost taste the tapas. 

Jim Greeley, Wine Supervisor, SW Florida

Follow me on Twitter @ABCWineJimG