Bodegas Lopez Cristobal is located in Ribera del Duero; the northern plane of the Iberian Peninsula in Spain. It was founded in 1994 by Santiago López, an agricultural engineer, and his wife Lola. The 124-acres of vineyards are now managed by their children Galo and Francisco who are committed to minimal intervention and aging in French and American Oak barrels.

This entry level, value rated red from the Lopez Cristobal portfolio is composed of 95% Tempranillo and 5% Merlot aged for 3 months in French Oak. I was surprised at how this wine overdelivers at its price point. The dark garnet color offers inviting aromas of red and blue orchard berries. The wine gracefully layers the palate with supple red currants and baked red raspberry compote. It offers purity and simplicity with edges that are rounded and finely polished along with tannins that are sleek and soft. This is a wine that you can take pleasure in any time of the week and not feel guilty in overspending.

By W Peter Hoyne