The Spanish Quarter, Costers del Segre (Catalonia, Spain) Chardonnay/Albarino 2006

($12, Codorniu USA): Codorniu, best known for their excellent Cava, also produces a range of still wines.  The Spanish Quarter label, their latest entry into the market, is meant to be an ‘easy to drink’ wine either as an aperitif or with food.  This Chardonnay/Albariño blend fits the bill.  Chardonnay adds body and Albariño, an indigenous Spanish grape, provides its characteristic verve.  A touch of residual sugar softens the wine, making it suitable as a before dinner drink, but also means it works well with flavorful or spicy fare. 86 Michael Apstein Mar 4, 2008