This Tempranillo predominant blend has got enough going on to keep us thinking about the drink, but it wasn't screaming for attention.  It's on the fuller bodied, fruit forward side of red wine, but isn't overbearing. It’s grippy, savoury tannins are asking for a decent piece of protein, but we happily drank it without food. Spain’s reds are celebrated for being great value for money, and this wine is an excellent demonstration of that.

Quinta Sardonia was founded by Peter Sisseck, maker of the iconic wine Pingus (the dude’s a bit of a big deal in the Spanish wine industry). Now a part of a group of wineries that include Terras Gauda, the estate is based in Ribera del Duero, known as the golden mile of the Duero River. Vineyards are located along the river in Castilla y Leon, and are both biodynamic and organic certificated.