Okay, I have to admit, this wine was a random pick off the shelf at Whole Foods. I had no idea what I would pair it with or if this would be a good wine from the region of Yecla, Spain. I am SO glad that I brought it home! It is vegan certified and was rated 91 points by wine critic, James Suckling. This blend was the perfect complement to the beef/vegan seitan fillets we had for dinner last night, and I learned some really interesting things about the grapes.

When I evaluated the wine, I smelled notes of raspberry, cherry, blackberries, plum and a little bit of pepper. It was dry with a medium+ body, medium acid and a gritty, high tannin. I tasted red fruit, like cherry and strawberry. The alcohol is labelled as 14.5% and I tasted it on the end, but it was not overwhelming like many other wines with an alcohol content this high. Overall, this wine is very good, especially for the price. If you like this wine, you should consider trying a Syrah from Washington State or Petite Sirah from California.

It paired well with beef, or if you’re like me, a vegan seitan fillet topped with A1 steak sauce. The body and tannins matched the heavy structure of the meat and the red fruits helped to mellow the sharp flavors of the A1. The subtle spices also helped to compliment the steak marinade.

The major grape in this blend is Monastrell which is known for dark, rich and fruit flavors. This is the signature grape grown in the Yecla region of Murcia, which is located in southeastern Spain. Monastrell is actually the same grape that is used in the Bandol red wines from Provence, France. However, in Provence they call this grape Mourvérde! Yes, my mind was blown too. So, if you want to try something similar to the Bandol reds, but don’t want to spend $60, then you should consider trying this!

The Garnacha Tintorera (or more commonly known as Alicante Bouschet) grape in this blend is a big player when it comes to the deep, red cherry color. Garnacha Tintorera is a Teinturier grape. Wait, what does that mean? A Teinturier grape is unique because both the skin AND the flesh inside are red. Most red wine grapes have clear flesh inside and only gain their final red color from fermenting with the skin, but Teinturier grapes provide extra color from their red flesh!

One thing I love most about wine is that the ones you least expect to impress you, usually leave a lasting impression. Next time you’re at the wine store, pick up something new! It just might surprise you.

Vintage: 2018

Producer/Winery: Antonio Candela

Region: Yecla, Spain

Grapes: 70% Monastrell, 15% Merlot, 15% Garnacha Tintorera

Price: $12