Wine Review - Rioja at Tapas Fantasticas

Ask a roomful of wine lovers about rioja, and you find an impressively high level of knowledge. It's Spanish (correct), a specific region (yep), its wines are often red, but occasionally pink or white (good, good), and it's often oaky (top of the class).

And it's always really rich, mature and full-bodied. No, no, no! This is a myth. I rarely encounter a great-big-chunky, in-yer-face red from Rioja, and even the traditional, yellow, heavily oaked whites are rare these days. Fact is, wine from Rioja comes in many styles, and the more modern versions are fresh, young, sprightly, summery.

Think casual dining, tapas, parties, fiestas… And, hurrah, just like that, the popular summer Tapas Fantasticas street party hits London again, from Friday 25th to Sunday 27th June at Potters Fields Park at the foot of Tower Bridge. This free event celebrates rioja wine and tapas, with lots of Spanish winemakers and chefs jetting in to show off their skills.

Expect music, dancing, live cookery demos and a great atmosphere. And loads of wine. Whether you're at the street party or not, this summer be sure to try the new-wave white riojas, unbaked and refreshing. And do sample the well-balanced, dry, fruit-driven rosados. The younger, less oaky, red riojas have a juicy, easy-drinking quality that's appealing with simple red meat dishes, charcuterie and tomato pasta sauce.

I'll be at Tapas Fantasticas on Sunday 27 June, holding seminars about the region (visit the website to book my talks). See you there. Meanwhile, here are three modern, vivacious Rioja wines to conjure up the party atmosphere…