Sangria always goes down well.
Vodka, cointreau, gin, redwine, orange juice, martini rosso and lemonade. Put some apple and orange wedges in to give it that oomph!
A bread basket with olive oil and white wine vinegar for dipping.
Ribera Del Duero is a great alternative to Rioja. Most Spaniards prefer the Ribera, anyway. Rueda Verdejo is a great choice for white wine lovers. Have you got a Tanners or another good wine shop in your area?
As for tapas, Albondigas (meatballs), boquerones con aceitunas (white anchovies with olives), Pisto (fried onions and peppers) and Tortilla (Spanish omelette) usually go down well. x