The living is easy – Grape Crush

It’s hot right now, but instead of veering into predictable patterns and going for cool, wet whites or fruity drinks, think steamy Mediterranean and head for the wines of sultry Spain. There are so many to choose from, but here are three of varying price and taste to kick off the month. None of these reds is prohibitively heavy, making them winning matches for the foods we love right now. Prices may vary.

Celler el Masroig Sola Fred 2007 – $11

Earning 90 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, this jammy, balanced wine features vivid color and juicy red fruit dominated by red currants. Produced from 90% Carignan (Carinena) and 10% Garnacha (Grenache) grapes from the up-and-coming Montsant region, this is a non-oaked, light-bodied wine good for drinking now or over the next few years.

Palacios Remondo Rioja La Vendimia 2007 – $17

The first thing to note about this wine is its silky mouthfeel. Intense and unfiltered, it avoids chewiness, veering instead into a lovely combination of berry and tea. Produced in the Rioja region from Tempranillo grapes, this wine is versatile and winning, with moderate acidity. Enjoy the subtle notes of vanilla on the finish. Be sure to decant this one.

Bodegas Borsao 2007 – $7

Here’s a great deal and an excellent food wine due to its perky acidity and red fruit nose. Composed of 75% Garnacha and 25% Tempranillo, this table wine is recommended with quesadillas, grilled meats and gourmet burgers, especially ones with bleu cheese. There’s terrific value here.