The 2006 Jaume Mesquida Negre is 80% Caillet with the balance Montenegro and Cabernet Sauvignon aged for six months in French oak. Dark ruby-colored, it offers up Beaujolais-like grapy aromas leading to a fresh, ripe, forward, fruity wine with plenty of flavor and a bit of structure. It will provide pleasure over the next three years. Importer: Steve Miles Selections, Denver, CO; Tel: (303) 495-3811

The famous resort island of Mallorca in the Mediterranean Sea also has a bit of vineyard. Understandably, most of its wine is consumed on location. However, some of the 2005 Negre from Jaume Mesquida managed to escape the island. Made primarily from the indigenous variety Callet, it has a unique aromatic profile, although clearly Mediterranean influenced. The wine was aged for 6 months in French oak. Notes of herbs, garrigue, lavender, leather, cherry, and raspberry are quite alluring. This is followed by a friendly, sweetly-fruited wine with no hard edges. It has an elegant personality as well as fine depth and length. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. It is an outstanding value. Importer: Steve Miles Selections, Denver, CO; tel. (303) 495-3811