Tasting - Opera Prima Sweet Red

Name: Opera Prima Sweet Red
Variety: 50% Tempranillo, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon*
Region: La Mancha*
Country: Spain
Year: 2010
Price: $4.95

The Vintage Cellar's Review: "Doesn't try to hide its warm-climate terroir, with a soft texture framing jammy-sweet black raspberry, cherry, red currant, root beer and sweet tea.  Drink now."

My Review: I could detect the sweetness of this red wine from the initial sniff.  Out of all the wines I've tasted, this one definitely rang true to its review more than some others do.  Raspberry was the predominant flavor, but there were definitely layers of other fruity flavors mentioned in the review.  It was very smooth, almost velvety, on the palate and had a very sweet, delicate aftertaste that wasn't at all overbearing.  It didn't seem to be very tannic, and there was no burn at all from the alcohol (only 10.5% ABV).  By my undistinguished taste, this is not a complex wine, but it is delicious nonetheless.  Great if you're looking for something sweet to pair with a dessert.  Drink now.

I tasted this wine without food the first time, but have since had it with chocolate covered strawberries, and will most definitely try that pairing again.

* http://www.civusa.com/assets/PDFs/Opera-Prima-Sweet-Red-2010-Final.pdf