Style Light red Old World Country Spain Price $15
Vintage tasted 2006 Grapes Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano
Website www.marquesdecaceres.com

Overview Everybody knows Marqués de Cáceres, either in its white, red, or pink form; it might well be the mostly widely distributed Spanish brand in the U.S. In previous editions this producer’s white wine was a favorite, but this year the red stole the show. It’s restrained, earthy, and food-friendly—exactly what a cheap Spanish red should be.

Nose Remember when you were a kid and you wanted a pony? Well, this wine smells like a stable, which is the next best thing. We suppose. There’s also red fruit that lends an approachability to all the earthiness.

Mouth Our blind tasters loved its sleekness, as well as the delicate balance of tannin and acid.