Sangre de Toro 2006

Name: Sangre de Toro
Colour: Red
Country: Spain
Region: Catalunya
Year: 2006
Producer: Miguel Torres, S.A.
Grape Varieties: Carinena, Garnacha Tinta
Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 6.49

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes: Deep ruby colour with a hint of ochre. Rich complex Mediterranean aromas with exuberant notes of spices and blackberries. Velvety tannins are noted on the palate with elegant flavours of liquorice and small dark forest fruits (blueberries and blackcurrants).

Somnambulist's verdict: This bottle came with a plastic bull attached, which should have served as a warning. Lesson learned. I would go more for the sour cherries, than "small, dark forest fruits." With the amount of alcohol in it, the opening glass is like liquid... err.. petroleum gas mixed with a bowl of black pepper. Probably ok with food, but you can get a decent Rioja for the same price and they are lightyears apart.

Vina Sol 2007

Name: Vina Sol
Colour: White
Country: Spain
Region: Catalunya
Year: 2007
Producer: Miguel Torres, S.A.
Grape Varieties: Parellada
Alcohol: 11.5%

Purchase Price: ca. EUR 6.00

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – Elegant, fresh, fruity aromas with fine spicy hints. Smooth, rich and crisp on the palate, with plenty of fruity flavours (apples and pineapples) and a touch of spice (fennel).

Somnambulist's verdict: Good every day drinking, alone or with light food. Simple but effective.