Here are five great Spanish wines from a recent tasting I did in preparation for my upcoming event, Wine Academy: The History and Passion of Spanish Wine.

2011 Destinos "Cruzados" - $12

100% Macabeo from the La Mancha Appelation. Bright and crisp with nice acidity and a distinct citrus flair that entices another sip.

2011 Conde Villar Rose - $14

100% Espadeiro from the Vinho Verde Appelation. Naturally efervescent and really freshing with fresh raspberry and a crsip, clean finish.

2011 Coto de Hayas Grenacha - $16

100% Grenacha from the Campo de Borja appelation. Baked fruit flavors of red cherry and currant berry mingle with earthy notes and a moderate spice profile.

2010 Pares Balta Mas Petit - $15

90% Cabernet and 10% Grenacha. Ripe plum and subtle blueberry mingle with smoke and leather to form a well balanced wine with good integration of flavors.

2008 Lorca Monastrell - $19

Well defined fruit and spice nicely structured to form a wine that is intense and delicate at the same time. Nice toasty notes from the oak aging on the finish.

All of these wines will be featured at the Poolside Wine Academy tasting at Avalon Golf and Country Club on August 29th. The event is limited to the first 54 people who make reservations.

You can join the fun by logging on to www.myvalleyvino.com and click on events.