Spanish Red Wine

There is hardly another country as diverse as Spain when it comes to red wine, or simply "tinto" as it's called there.  The range of red wines produced in Spain is astonishing.  The climate varies tremendously, producing light, approachable reds in cool, green northern Spain and jammy, rich and ripe wines with over 15% alcohol in the South of Spain.  A wide variety of grapes is found throughout Spain with Garnacha, Tempranillo, Carinena, Graciano, Mazuelo, and Bobal leading by quantity.  Varietal character for each of these varies widely depending on climate.  Add to this the creative tension that is winemaking in Spain, which ranges from traditional estates established for over a century to creative new entrants who are revolutionizing vineyard and cellar.  If you are a red wine lover, you have found your ultimate playground.