The Mystery of Picasso
2006 Este de Bodegas Alto Almanzora
Almeria, Spain / $9-$10 Retail
This bottling is produced in Vino de la Tierra Almeria, a wine region on Spain's southern coast. The wine is blended from primarily Monastrell (Mourvedre) with Tempranillo, Garnacha (Grenache), Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Delicious and complex, the medium-bodied Este offers enticing aromas of blackberry, currants, cocoa and violets, followed by flavors of cherry, plum and cassis with espresso, toffee and black pepper notes. It is best after decanting and goes well with a variety of foods including tapas, barbecue ribs or chicken, grilled meats, almonds, olives and aged Manchego cheese. Buy it at: Swirl Wines and the Wine Seller. — Brenda Maitland
