Gran Oristan Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2006, La Mancha, Spain - Laithwaites

This Laithwaites wine produced by Bodegas Lozano came in one of my mystery cases. It hails from La Mancha, a swathe of inland Spain which historically produced little of interest. However, in recent years, improvements in winemaking techniques have resulted in much more interesting wines being produced there and La Mancha is now Spain's Languedoc - an exciting, good value, up-and-coming region, all the more so if you are looking for something a little different.

The wine is an unusual Aussie / Bordeaux blend - Shiraz is Australia's signature red grape, whilst Cab's spiritual home is Bordeaux. On the nose it has vanilla and rich bramble fruit, it's smooth and well-structured on the palate, with dark berries and a slap of leather and good length.

Match with something equally robust, such as plain roast red meats or good-quality salamis and hams.

At £5.99 a bottle (plus delivery), it's reasonable value.

Links

Laithwaites - http://www.laithwaites.co.uk/

Bodegas Lozano - http://www.bodegas-lozano.com/ingles/home.html