Mo, Bodegas Sierra Salinas, 2006, Spain
Cost: $13-15
What: When you pour the wine you notice a rich, deep purple color with cherry and berry fruit aromas. The wine is lush and smooth in the mouth, with flavors of plum, cherry, blueberry, spices and some tannins. It has a rich, fruit taste. As the wine mixes with the air it softens and develops complexity, so I would recommend opening the bottle some time before you drink it. Made primarily from monastrell grapes, with grenacha tintorera, syrah and cabernet sauvignon. A great value for an elegant wine.
The Winery: With a long history in the wine industry, the Castano family founded Bodegas Sierra Salinas in southeastern Spain in 2000. The Monastrell vines on the property are 20 years old. The family is committed to making top-value wines from Monastrell, a grape not grown in many places. In France and California the grape is known as mourvedre. It’s usually blended with other grapes because it adds some backbone to softer red blends.
GOES WITH: Mo is perfect for a simple weekday dinner such as a beef soup, but it has enough body to hold up to heavier dishes such as beef, wild game and strong cheeses. I had it with chili and spaghetti, and it held up to the powerful flavors both times.
