Panarroz Jumilla 2006, $7-$8

Depending on where you live in the world, there are two main staples of diet; bread or rice. I'm not sure if the naming of this wine was intentional (pan = bread) (arroz = rice), but I like the idea of wine being the third staple! Either way, this affordable wine will go with both.

When I first tried Panarroz a few weeks back, I wasn't immediately smitten. But with most affordable wines I'll buy at least two bottles, which saves me a trip back to the store if I really like it. The second bottle made me a believer... This mourvedre, grenache and syrah blend was fruit forward, but nothing like the pop in your kisser from the Luchador.

There are some amazing values coming out of Spain recently, Jumilla in particular. If you come across Panarroz in the wine aisle or another from this growing region, pick-up a sampler and see what you think.

Cheers!