Don Ramon, Oak Aged Quality

Now you can't always say that just because a wine is good or expensive it is good or bad.  In fact, in my last decade+ of wine drinking I have had to learn my lessons the hard way.  Because I am not rich I am typically forced to drink bottles that are in the $12-$22 dollar range.  This is perfect for me though as sitting on the couch staring at the fire and television really isn't worthy of $25 dollars a glass.

Having said this, from time to time I have found greatness in the under $12 dollar range.  Though rare, it happens.  When it does, it's a love affair in the making!

Today's wine: "Don Ramon" Vino Tinto Barrica 2008 Oak Aged Red Wine, a product of Spain

 Price Point, $6-$9


I found this wine one day while at my local wine shop.  The owner of the shop knows I enjoy blends and recommended that I give this one a try.  It was on a separate wine rack across from the standard "popular" wines and was low, low, low on the shelf.  I looked down at the bottle and said "Really."   The owner, "Donnie" said, "Give it a shot, its actually a nice lil red blend."

So that night I took home my first bottle of Don Ramon and gave it a taste.  My first thought was "Wow" I am impressed.

At first glance the bottle looks as if it came off a Spanish galleon or something.  The glass is brown (like a Mexican Beer bottle) and it has a narrow neck and a tightly fitted tiny lil' cork stuck in it.   The neck and shoulder of the bottle are closed with foil and a small ribbon that must be pulled through a wax in order to actually open the bottle.  Call it strange but its almost like opening a treasure chest or something!

Upon opening my mind washed with visions of riding through the countryside by train in Spain slowly sipping and enjoying as the fields passed us by.

Soon after that I had the vision of myself sitting table side, overlooking the harbor having tapas and good conversation.

The wine itself is simple, drinkable, and best of all easy.  What I mean by easy is that it does not dry the throat and leave you needing water to rehydrate with.  The flavor is fruity and there are hints of some blackberry and cherry.  I could drink this wine on the couch, on a boat, at a wedding, or even with a pizza.  Being a Sangria lover this is not quite as fruity and sweet, but along the same lines minus all the sugar.

The make up of this blend is 75% Grenache and 25% Tempranillo

All in all the vacation that Don Ramon took me on was pleasant, happy, and uplifting.  Last night I even found myself listening/watching a documentary special about a World renown singer/diva from Cuba named Albita.  If you haven't heard her sing I highly recommend you checking her out.  She is great!  Her beautiful voice and this wine proved to be a perfect pairing for sure.

Would I drink Don Ramon again? Without a doubt!

Would I buy Don Ramon again? Absolutely!

PS- Don't tell anyone but I have never been to Spain!

......Ahhh someday.