Merum’s 2008 Monastrell is a blend of 85% Monastrell and 15% Syrah. Medium ruby-colored, it offers an alluring nose of spice box, lavender, black cherry, and blueberry. Supple-textured, forward, and sweetly-fruited, this balanced effort has no hard edges. It is a very good value for drinking over the next 2-3 years. Importer: The Artisan Collection, New York, NY; tel. (212) 608-0722