A Red Blend From The Heart Of Spain

A Red Blend From The Heart Of Spain: Wine Reviewed
Osborne Solaz Shiraz Tempranillo 2007 13.5 % alcohol about $9

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “Tasting Note: Medium red violet color; aromas of cedar, oak/vanilla and ripe berry; dry, medium bodied, with flavors of cherry, blackberry, cedar, and spice. Serving Suggestion: Roasted chicken sandwiches, Spanish jamon or serrano ham, or stew.” And now for my review.


At the first sips this wine was mouth filling. It had fine balance among fruit, acidity, and tannins. I tasted black plums. The initial meal centered on a barbecued chicken leg that rendered the wine’s acidity harsh. I tasted black cherries and tobacco. The side dish of potatoes roasted in chicken fat flattened the fruit but the wine was long and its pleasant tobacco taste (no, I am not a smoker) remained. The accompanying tomato, pimento, hot peppers, and garlic-based oriental salad/salsa definitely weakened this wine.

This review of a red Spanish blended wine continues on our website.