Ondarre Rioja Reserva 2002

If you are into Riojas this one is a pretty tasty treat. Tempranillo 75%, Garnacha 10%, Mazuelo (Carignane)15%, full body with a deep cherry hue. No oxidation or browning. The nose is typically malolactic: yogurt and sweet fruit.
Sometimes Riojas are too flat for me... this one, although very fruit forward, has enough structure to be fun. Cherry syrup, fig jam and oak. $16 in retail. And yes, it calls for a pork loin!

Marques de Caceres Crianza 2005

Spain restaurant, Manhattan. 26 dollars. We've all had a trustie Marques from time to time. Classic, cheap, full bodied Rioja. The tapas of albondigas and patatas bravas are compliments of the house. Good recession combo!