2004 Spain

Quite a mixed year in Spain with very good results in a number of regions including Rias Baixas and Ribera del Duero. Summer rains caused some problems in Rioja and Navarra, but good weather from mid-September to mid-October turned things around. The harvest in Rioja was halted temporarily by rains on 17^th October, but continued successfully from then on.

There are very good crisp whites from Rias Baixas and Rioja. The Rioja reds will be more uneven, but there are some good wines, especially from Rioja Alta and Alavesa. Navarra had a few problems too, but there are some good lighter wines. Ribera del Duero was successful however, with ripe, full-bodied wines being made. After a run of bad weather in August and September, the north-east recovered and had a good October, so there will be good 2004 Prioratos.