Satisfying from the purple color to the sweet bouquet to the clean palate to the long finish. It’s a little simple and syrupy, but overall there’s plenty of freshening acidity and flavors of plum, berry and chocolate to make it a complete and balanced wine. And that’s really all you should hope for in this price category. ——M.S.(2/1/2011)—— 87

A little rubbery and spunky at first, but patience reveals foresty berry fruit, mint and spice. The palate is vibrant as can be, with red-fruit flavors coming in front of a peppery backdrop. Everything from cough drop to kir to espresso shows up in this toasty, testy and tasty organic Monastrell. ——M.S.(12/15/2008)—— 87