This friendly wine is tasty on its own and even better with food. A well-made blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot, the balanced red and black fruit flavors are ripe and complex, balanced by notes of earth and spice. A good choice for Spanish tapas, paella, grilled quail, steaks, or buffalo. The retail price is $30. You’ll find it at the tasting room in Paso Robles, or online at vihuelawinery.com.
This article appears in Mar 19-26, 2009.