A familiar looking bottle – this wine is widely available. My local corner shop stocks it. There are several variations, featuring some kind of Cavalier – who has put me off for years. As an alternative to Campo Viejo, the market leading rioja I gave it a whirl. The standard was about the same and for the price it’s pretty good. The tasting notes say it is ‘perfect to go with starters, everyday red meat dishes and poultry’. That is not entirely correct – or even possible!

Tasting notes:  Deep red colour. Initially some spicy, peppery notes. Slightly thin. Soft tannins. A short finish. Decent rioja.

Region of Origin – Rioja
Wine Colour – Red
Price – £8
Where do I get it from? Tesco
Current Vintage – 2015
Producer – Bodegas Faustino
Grape – Tempranillo
Country – Spain
Points – 90

Food Pairing: Good with shepherd’s pie!