A BELTER of a wine for you this week ladies and gents and one I found while at Booths, one of a new range of wines they are introducing in all their stores.

The wine in question is from Spain, which is making some fantastic wines from indigenous grape varities and new winemaking areas; this is no exception from the designated area of Almansa which is situated in south east Spain known for its big and bold reds.

This LAYA 2010 is made from monastrell (mourvedre) and garnacha tintorera (a hybrid of grenache and Alicante bouschet). The monastrell gives the body and alcohol where as the tintorera adds colour and fruit. Both these are widely planted here and are commonly blended together.

The appearance is deep and dark, nearly impossible to see through and is followed by a nose of clean berries and herbs. The feel in the mouth is of dry dark fruit and herbs with a coffee hint and smooth rich tannins, and with a good length to top it off. This is a wine not to drink alone so pair it with grilled meats or try a high coca content chocolate bar for an alternative experience on a cold winter night.

Available at Booths, £7.99.

  • Graeme Hedley is sommelier and expert on food and wine at Kendal College’s Lakes Hotel School