Chateau Chateau Skulls Red Blend 2012: Intriguing label (skull formed by less threatening natural images, perhaps inspired by Salvador Dali), intriguing wine once made in Australia with grenache and mataro, now made in Spain with equal blend of mencia and tempranillo—but by the same star Aussie winemaker Chris Ringland. Inky black, delightful nose; big, bold, sweet fruit with the mencia adding power and body to the tempranillo; plum, spice, cherry, dark berries, dark chocolate, brown sugar. Soft, full, round; friendly tannin, tasty finish, easy drinker with 14.5% alcohol. Place of origin: Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y León; add to your “Spanish wine is splendid and affordable” list. $19
