Don Mendo Gran Reserva 2008

Set in remote northeast Spain, Cariñena is one of the country's oldest regions. It's also home to "fruity, modern, well made wines that offer fantastic value for money" (Harpers). Don Mendo is a case in point – a beautifully mature Gran Reserva from Bodegas San Valero, one of the region's oldest cellars and described by Spanish expert John Radford as "making some of the best value wines in Spain".

One of their wines was chosen, above all others, to serve to King Juan Carlos when he visited the region on the DO's 75th anniversary. A lush blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha and Cariñena (it's the name of a grape and a region), Don Mendo is soft and mellow with a core of intense red fruit and gentle spice. The perfect partner to garlicky lamb or traditional tapas.