Enciro Monastrell Merlot 2004

Price: $6
Brand: Enciro “El Bully”
Variety: Monastrell – Merlot
Packaging: Bottle, natural cork
Our Rating: 7.5 out of 10

One doesn’t find as many affordable Spanish wines as those from Australia or California, and Monastrell is a relatively uncommon grape. We gave Enciro Monastrell Merlot 2004 a try, and found it a reasonably good low end choice if you are looking for something other than the typical cab, merlot, or shiraz. This is a blend of Monastrell (85%) and Merlot (15%). The Monastrell clearly dominates, with a berry nose and a fruity, if a bit flinty, flavor. Try it with Italian food or even something a bit more spicy.

The Enciro “El Bully” brand appears to be a creation of the Prestige Wine Group. Their brief description reads, “An Old World style of silky tannins and earthy aromas while packing in lots of bright, New World-styled fruit flavors of blackberries and plums.”

I wouldn’t go to great lengths to find this wine, but if you spot it on the shelf and are looking for an affordable change of pace, give it a try.