Don Mendo Gran Reserva 2009

Cariñena in northeast Spain, is one of the country's oldest wine appellations. It is home to "fruity, modern, well made wines that offer fantastic value for money" (Harpers). Don Mendo is a case in point - a beautifully mature Gran Reserva from Bodegas San Valero, one of Cariñena's oldest cellars and described by Spanish expert John Radford as "making some of the best value wines in Spain". A wine of theirs was chosen, above all others, to serve to King Juan Carlos when he visited the region on the 75th anniversary of its DO status. A lush blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha and Cariñena (it's also the name of a grape), Don Mendo is soft and mellow with intense red fruit and gentle spice. The perfect partner to cured meats and grilled chicken.