Red and green

I would enjoy El Talud 2004, a fruity red pressed from tempranillo grapes in the Rioja region of Spain, even if it didn't hail from Europe's first bio-climatic winery.

The facility reduces the significant water used to create wine by 50 percent. But you might be too focused on the notes of strawberry, black cherry and tobacco to think about that. You likely wouldn't look twice at the price tag, about $14.

Another good choice from the region is the 2003 Magister Bibendi Crianza, a blend of 90 percent tempranillo and 10 percent garnacha, that retails for about $19. A lovely ruby red, this wine has subtle woodsy and spicy tones, with a long, toasty finish.

Food friendly and ready to please, the El Talud can go straight to the table without spending time in your cellar, although the Crianza would happily reside below ground for up to seven years before serving. To learn more about wines from the region, take a trip to www.vibrantrioja.com