The 2007 Tipico is a blend of 40% Grenache, 40% Monastrell, and 20% Shiraz aged in seasoned French oak for 15 months. A fragrant perfume of underbrush, cherry, and blueberry leads to a full-bodied, rich, already complex wine with a velvety texture and some elegance for its size. Layered, savory, and long, it over-delivers in a big way. Cascabel’s latest releases maintain the high standards established in previous vintages.Importer: Southern Starz, Huntington Beach, CA; tel. (714) 892-3030

The intriguing blend is 50% Monastrell, 30% Grenache and 20% Shiraz, and the wine features crisp, clean notes of cherries and berries. The tannins are soft and rounded, with just a hint of smoke on the finish.——J.C.(11/1/2010)—— 87