The 2014 Alegre, which is 100% Monastrell from some of their oldest vines, has a seductive, deep ruby/purple color and loads of blueberry and blackberry fruit, as well as floral notes intermixed with loamy soil undertones. It is rich, fleshy and sexy. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.

For many years I have been writing about the quality of the finest wines from Jumilla, a treasure trove of Spanish values. Made from 100% Monastrell (Mourvèdre), Torre Castillo's 2013 Alegre is a beauty. Flowery, with blueberry and blackberry fruit notes intermixed with hints of camphor and incense, this medium-bodied red possesses lots of fruit, good depth and ripe tannins, something Mourvèdre seems to achieve with regularity in this sun-baked area of Spain. Consume it over the next several years.

Torre Castillo’s 2009 Alegre is 100% Monastrell aged 4 months in American oak. Cedar, pepper, underbrush, brier, and blueberry inform the nose of this sweetly-fruited, succulent Monastrell. This very good value will continue to provide pleasure for another 3-4 years. Importer: Kysela Pere & Fils, Winchester, VA; Tel. (540) 722-9228