Great day out with the family at Tapas Fantasticas in Manchester’s Albert Square, sponsored by Wines of Rioja. In between slivers of the fabulous Jamon from Grado, Olly Smith aka Syndrome said that the audience for the tastings he was conducting had been both enthusiastic and knowledgeable.

Wine of the day was the Ontañón Gran Reserva 2001, from the high reaches of Rioja Baja. This is one of the most southerly bits of Rioja so it’s on the warm side during the day, but the high altitude means the nights are cool, so there’s never a shortage of acidity. The upshot is a wine with plush berry and plum fruit tinged plus the typical vanilla and spice but that remains remarkably fresh and Tigger-like for a Gran Reserva. Classy stuff, contact Hamilton Yorke for more details.

It’s on again tomorrow, with Susy Atkins taking Olly’s place – careful though as rain is forecast.