Water into Wine
My latest artist pick (groovy wines under $10) comes from one of the oldest estates in the Jumilla region of southern Spain- - Finca Luzon — founded by the Gil family in 1916.
LUZON VERDE 2006 at the great price of $ 8.99 is certified organic and made from 100% Monastrell (a varietal also known as Mourvèdre in France). You’ll enjoy the crystal ruby color with a violet halo as you swirl and release the aroma of blueberries and cherries. This full-bodied wine is packed with dark fruits, slightly herbaceous and spicy with a hint of cocoa nibs before tobacco bursts forth, ending in a smooth finish softened by ripe tannins.
The Wine Advocate rated it an 89. Not bad for an affordable organic wine. Wines from Jumilla are generally ripe and jammy, with loads of dark berry fruit intertwined with spicy notes, chocolate and tea. Very versatile for food pairings and modestly priced, they’re a great accompaniment to Chinese take-out (like a heaping plate of barbeque spare ribs), perfect for those summer nights when you just don’t feel like roasting in the kitchen to prepare your meal.
If you’d like to explore the region, it’s slightly inland from the Mediterranean Sea in the province of Murica and Albaceta with 30,000 hectares among 44 vineyards that produce about 26 million liters of wine annually. Created as a DO in 1966, Jumilla has undergone a revolution in the past few decades. The new generation of wines has helped the region to blossom and prosper.
In mid-August, the Fiesta de la Vendimia culminates in a final night of revelry during which the fountains release wine, not water and party goers notoriously throw the wine around as if caught in a swirling frenzy, so be sure to wear dark clothing you may never be able to wear again.
A little off the beaten track from all the festivities and vineyards, through olive and almond trees, you can find affordable lodging in a 2 bedroom apt. with a pool and views of the Sierra Carche mountain range.
Savor the last month of summer and throw caution (and wine) to the wind!
