The 2009 Mira Salinas, a blend of 70% Monastrell, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Garnacha Tintorera and 5% Petit Verdot was aged for 14 months in oak barrels, where the Monastrell seems to take the leading role. It’s quite open and approachable, with a serious wine profile full of black fruit, damsons, Mediterranean herbs, a compact palate, clean, balanced, well made, round and with polished tannins. Very approachable. Drink 2013-2016. Created in 2000 by the Castano family from Yecla, who fell in love with the scenery and the old vines they found in the village of Villena, Alicante, not very far from Yecla at all. They own 52 hectares of dry-farmed Monastrell and some Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet), Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot planted at 700 meters above sea level. They now produce 350,000 bottles of wine from Alicante. Importer: European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565, www.europeancellars.com