A lot of Spain this month, you might be thinking. But how can I resist when there are so many great wines coming from every corner of Spain. And best of all, they are very different. So think of this as a wine from somewhere else if it makes you feel better!

Priorat, in Catalonia, is the home of old vines, licorella (decomposed granite schist with bits of formica and quartzite) soil, and some really exciting red wines. It has recently sprung to fame as some great winemakers have begun applying modern winemaking techniques and getting world class results. The result of this, has been lots of really expensive Priorato on the market. But there are still some bargains, and when they show up, they need to be jumped on.  (for a pdf of a great wine map of spain, click here)

Vinícola del Priorat is a cooperative consisting of top growers in the villages of Gratallops, el Lloar, la Vilella Alta and la Vilella Baixa. From the best of their grapes, the wines of Onix are made. The 2006 Clàssic is a blend of 50% Mazuelo (called Carignan in France, and Cariñena in other parts of Spain) and 50% Garnacha. The wine sees no oak, allowing the heady, spicy aromas and flavors of the grapes to scream out of the glass.

Think about red fruit, white pepper, dried herbs and leather here. Try this with fish, poultry, or burgers. Also great with grilled or roasted veggies. Drink now -2012.