Naumes Family Vineyards, Rogue Valley (Oregon) Tempranillo 2016

 Tempranillo in Oregon?  Who knew?  Not I.  But now I do and I will look for more after tasting this one from Naumes Family Vineyards.  Tempranillo, Spain’s signature variety grown in Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Toro, is an early ripening one that does well in southern Oregon, according to producers there.  Naumes’ 2016 is balanced and bright with spice and fruit without too much of anything.  Suave tannins lend support without being intrusive, which means it’s lovely to drink now.  This wine also reminds us that there’s more to Oregon wine than just the Willamette Valley.