Spain is the third-largest producer of wine in the world after Italy and France. Rioja, in north-central Spain, is the country's major wine producing region and the principal grape, the native Tempranillo, is Spain's greatest red variety.

Mary says a good way to become familiar with Spanish wines is to select a region, such as Rioja, and begin tasting. Look for bottles from producers such as CVNE (Compania Vincola del Norte de Espana), Muga, and Monticello (the wine maker here is a woman).

Another good choice would be Torres. Although not from the Rioja region, Torres dominates the Spanish table wine business and Mary says their wines are well made, clean, widely available, and reasonably priced.