Wanted: Paco Oso, Paco Toston and Paco Lagarto. Their “crime”? Producing the grapes behind Mas Buscados Tinto 2014, a Tempranillo and Petit Verdot blend from Castilla in Spain, a Vino de la Tierra geographic indication known for its diverse and palate pleasing good value wines.
Fun fact: “Mas Buscados Tinto” is Spanish for “Most Wanted Red”.
In a land where countless tons of mass produced grapes are used to make countless tons of mass produced wines, putting your face on the bottle it’s a bit of a rebellious act, perhaps that’s why the three Pacos are featured at their best mugshot-chic.
But Mas Buscados Tinto 2014‘s only transgression is to catch your eyes with a gimmicky label, which, let’s be honest, stands out. After a taste of its contents, however, you’ll let this minor offence pass…
With 14% ABV, it’s on the stronger side of normal in the alcoholic department, evidence of the hot weather that saw the fruit grow. Need exhibit B? The rich ripeness of the black fruit you can savour is also a result of a -very passionate- kiss from the sun.
Blackberries and an dried floral note encounter a delicate balsamic, herbacious hint. Texture wise, this is a smoth criminal with light tannins and a contrasting mouth-watering acidity.
Pair it with matured cheeses or jamón, or if you want something a bit more filling, go for a Beef and Beetroot Hummus Salad, or perhaps a tasty Italian Super-food Burgers, Balsamic Onions, Mozzerella & Slaw.
Mas Buscados Tinto 2014 is available at O’Briens Wine at €10 (on offer from €13.13.95).
Gabriela’s passion for writing is only matched by her love for food and wine. Journalist, confectioner and sommelier, she fell in love with Ireland years ago and moved from Venezuela to Dublin in 2014.
Since then, she has written about and worked in the local food scene, and she’s determined to discover and share the different traditions, flavours and places that have led Irish food and drink to fascinate her.
Gabriela Guédez Gabriela Guédez