Let’s not describe these weeks with the harsh words of confinement or lock-down. We are chez nous, as the French would say, at home with much loved family members while keeping in touch with many friends. We are trying to help save lives and do our civic duty in the coronavirus crisis. In this journey, we have tried two new wines that deserve to make it into this blog as House favorites.

The first one is Viña Pomal Terruño Centenario Reserva 2014, a special selection of the classic Rioja, to celebrate the centennial of these vignerons (I will stop using French words tout suite).This wine transports you to the hills and valleys of Rioja, with beautiful flavors of violets and fruits, a quintaessential present for those of us who love to walk there in the spring (13 euros).

Beltza is an odd red, since typically Txakoli wines are white. This one is a more subtle and sophisticated member of the family, that can make conversation last longer than a pintxos appetizer. “Beltza” in Basque means black, a good way to highlight its elegance. It comes from the coastal village of Baquio, in Biscay, a well known surf destination surrounded by mountains and vineyards (12 euros). We look forward to a trip soon to this wonderful beach!