2007 Bodegas Castaño Monastrell Yecla (Spain, Murcia, Yecla)

Dark garnet in color. The nose consists of leather and damp earth. The black fruit flavors are layered with smoke, and a touch of oak. The tannins are big and bold but will lay down with some time in the decanter which is a must for full enjoyment of this wine in the near term. Located in Southeastern Spain, the region of Yecla lies to the east of Jumilla and to the west of Alicante. The Yecla region’s progressive leader, Bodegas Castaño, has long been an advocate of the Monastrell varietal, also known as Mourvèdre. The varietal is best regarded for its influence on the wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape where the terroir and climate is not dissimilar to that of Yecla. Both benefit from a very warm, Mediterranean climate with warm days and nights. This wine is very affordable ($10-12) and quite enjoyable.