"Spain is one of the largest wine producing countries in the world, known for bargain pricing and reds to suit any taste. A longtime favorite of mine and a star feature in Surdyk’s Spanish wine section is Torres Sangre de Toro red blend. It was first made back in 1954, and today it is ranked in the top 14% of wine from the Catalunya region, just west of Barcelona. This is a delicious wine to pair with flavorful spice-infused cuisine. Its delightful ripe berry aroma and deep crimson hue usher in a robust, yet velvety experience on the palate. I particularly like the soft middle notes of black pepper, licorice, and orange peel. The grape blend of Cariñena and Garnacha promote fruit flavors of cherry and blackberry, and six months of American and French oak aging makes for a smooth, rounded oak tannic core. There’s a nice balance of acidity which makes this red well-suited for hearty meat stews. Sangre de Toro is very drinkable and shows true Spanish character." -Wine Consultant, Bill McCleary