Tempranillo Buying Guide: Raimat, Impulsivo and El Nido
By Chicago's Best Wine & Spirits Store | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Buying Guides
Choose Tempranillo by occasion and budget: Raimat Pirinenca 2016 for everyday meals, Impulsivo 2017 for a special bottle, El Nido 2008 for a collector's cellar.
Quick answer
For a versatile weeknight red, buy Raimat Pirinenca Tempranillo 2016. For a richer, special-occasion bottle, choose Impulsivo 2017. For a cellar-worthy splurge, select Bodegas El Nido El Nido 2008.
Why Spanish Tempranillo price tiers matter
Tempranillo spans a wide range in Spain, from fresh young wines to dense, age-worthy bottles. The three wines here illustrate distinct price tiers: Raimat Pirinenca 2016 sits at the entry level, Impulsivo 2017 in the mid-range, and El Nido 2008 at the premium end. Each tier delivers a different drinking experience, so match the bottle to your plans rather than assuming higher price always means better fit.
When to trade up or stay value-focused
If you are hosting a casual dinner with white meat or cured cheeses, the Raimat's sweet tannins and fresh red fruit make it a low-risk choice. For a meal centered on roasted lamb or wild boar, the organic Finca Torremilanos Montecastrillo Tinto 2021 offers earthy notes and fine grain tannins that complement richer dishes. Impulsivo 2017 brings smoked black cherries, tobacco and a meaty finish, so it suits a steak dinner or a special gathering. El Nido 2008, with its 96-point Parker rating, is best reserved for a celebratory occasion or as a gift for a collector.
Decision rules for buying Tempranillo
- Everyday meals under $15: Choose Raimat Pirinenca Tempranillo 2016 for its fresh red fruit and sweet tannins; it pairs with white meat, cured cheeses, legumes and oily fish.
- Organic and earthy preference: Pick Finca Torremilanos Montecastrillo Tinto 2021 if you want a certified organic wine with sage, leather and black plum notes; it suits roasted lamb or veal.
- Special-occasion richness: Select Impulsivo 2017 when you want a smooth, long finish with smoked black cherries and tobacco; its meaty character stands up to steak or game.
- Collector or gift bottle: Buy Bodegas El Nido El Nido 2008 for its 96-point Parker rating and age-worthy structure; it is best for celebrations or as a gift.
Key facts at a glance
- FINCA TORREMILANOS MONTECASTRILLO TINTO 2021 (ORGANIC): Certified Biodynamic/Organic vineyard; 100% Tempranillo. Offers an organic option at an accessible price, ideal for everyday meals with lamb or veal.
FINCA TORREMILANOS MONTECASTRILLO TINTO 2021 (ORGANIC) - RAIMAT PIRINENCA TEMPRANILLO 2016, Spain: Sustainable vineyard; notes of red fruit, cocoa and spice with sweet tannins. A budget-friendly bottle that pairs widely with white meats and cured cheeses.
RAIMAT PIRINENCA TEMPRANILLO 2016, Spain - BODEGAS EL NIDO EL NIDO 2008: Robert Parker 96 Points. Signals critical acclaim, making it a strong choice for a special-occasion splurge.
- IMPULSIVO 2017: Biodynamic vineyard practices; dark fruit, tobacco and a meaty, smooth finish. Delivers a richer, savory profile for those who want more complexity than an entry-level wine.
Who should buy which
Best for
- Shoppers seeking an affordable, food-friendly red for weeknight dinners
- Hosts planning a special meal who want a richer, more complex Tempranillo
- Collectors or gift-givers looking for a highly rated, age-worthy Spanish wine
Not for
- Those who prefer white wines or very light reds
- Buyers on a tight budget who want to spend under $10
- Anyone looking for a wine to drink immediately without decanting
