Mano A Mano La Mancha Tempranillo 2004

Tempranillos can range in body and intensity, and this one is bold as Cervantes.  Importer Jorge Ordoñez is a bull fighter when it comes to Spanish wines, and Mano La Mancha is a personal project for him.

Ordoñez has directed this abundant young red to appeal to US taste buds, while retaining its Spanish heritage. Composition is 100% Tempranillo, aged 6 months in oak. Tasting Notes. Color: Deep black purple ruby, translucent. Aromas: Cherry, pomegranate and hints of meat and bacon fat. The mouthfeel is medium to full bodied, with intense dry gravelly tannins to balance the bold fruit flavors and tart acidity which explode on the palate. The finish is firm with warm echoes of lush red fruit and a dryness that begs another sip. Closure: Real cork. Excellent value ($12)

Comments

[g58]

Interesting. I've been coming at Spanish reds through the back door -- via Portugal and its regional wines, which I'm trumpeting all week long for my blog's theme week. I didn't realize that the Aragonês and Tinta Roriz I was enjoying in wines from Douro and Alentejo were actually Tempranillo. And this particular one you review reminds me of some of my favourites. It sounds like a brilliant varietal. Hope I can find it.

[Cory Kleinschmidt]

I've seen Mano a Mano for sale at Cost Plus World Market (which is a chain kinda like Pier One but with food and wine), in St. Louis and Atlanta. Maybe there's one near you.

I passed up Mano a Mano in favor of Wrongo Dongo the last time I was there, which is a brilliant monastrell from Jorge Ordonez, and an incredible value at $7.99. But next time I go, I think I'll pick up a bottle of Mano. I had a really bad Grenache for my first taste of that wine, and the experience soured me on it for years since. But, I've been reading good things about that grape, so next time I'm in World Market, I think I may pick one up.

Thanks for the tip, and keep up the great blogging!

[Mr. Besilly]

I loved this lovely latin red and consider it a great daily splash. Roasted aromas of coffee beans, blackberry, and tobacco. Smooth entry, with loads of fruit but not over powering. I paired this wine with a tuna red sauce pasta and it was a great match. I consider this Spanish import a real steal under $10 bucks. You will have no regrets with this one.