Jaume Mesquida Negre

The famous resort island of Mallorca in the Mediterranean Sea also has a bit of vineyard. Understandably, most of its wine is consumed on location. However, some of the 2005 Negre from Jaume Mesquida managed to escape the island. Made primarily from the indigenous variety Callet, it has a unique aromatic profile, although clearly Mediterranean influenced. The wine was aged for 6 months in French oak. Notes of herbs, garrigue, lavender, leather, cherry, and raspberry are quite alluring. This is followed by a friendly, sweetly-fruited wine with no hard edges. It has an elegant personality as well as fine depth and length. Drink it over the next 3–4 years. It is an outstanding value.

Inky ruby. Deep raspberry and blueberry aromas are complicated by graphite, smoked meat and cracked pepper; this smells like syrah. Juicy dark berry flavors deliver intensity without weight, picking up silky tannins with air. Impressively vibrant wine with excellent finishing cut and clarity.

A welcome blend of local grapes Callat and Manto Negro with everyone’s favorite, Cabernet Sauvignon. Boasts a beautiful bouquet of lavender, blueberries and cassis that follows through on the palate, joined with flinty mineral and garrigue notes. A touch of oak adds complexity, and the well-integrated tannins give great structure and balance. Fans of Petite Sirah, Malbec and Zinfandel should definitely check this one out.