2010 Bodegas Bleda - Castillo de Jumilla Monastrell-Tempranillo Jumilla

Bright violet in color, this light-hearted, copiously fruity blend of Monastrell and Tempranillo delivers boatloads of fresh, highly quaffable strawberry fruit courtesy of the Rioja-derived Tempranillo. The secret ingredient, however, is the Monastrell, a variety that is indigenous to the arid, dry Jumilla region, and that grows extremely well there. Monastrell provides the lush, dark berry fruit that underpins the lighter flavors of the Tempranillo. Although youthfully fruit-forward in the style of a traditional Spanish joven wine, this wine also offers surprising backbone, texture, and richness.