2008 Wrongo Dongo Monastrell

This has become one of my favorite wines for around $10. Made from 100% Monastrell (Mourvedre) and sourced from the Gil family estates in Jumilla, Spain this wine is essentially the baby brother to the ever popular Juan Gil, which is priced from $15-$20. Pours a wonderful purple color with a nose that is exceptionally fragrant with notes of blueberry, baking spice and earth. The palate is loaded with rich fruit and tons of spice while being well rounded and exceedingly smooth. This wine has enough backbone that it would stand up to any number of roasts, steaks or barbeque but yet it is still fruit forward enough to pair with even some lighter dishes. This is why I love most Spanish wine, they tend to be some of the most versatile styles of wine available.

$10/750ml

Rating: 9.0 out of 10

Dogfish Head Black & Blue Ale

What a unique beer to say the least. This Belgium style Golden Ale brewed with black raspberry and blueberry puree is a must try for any serious beer lover. The label art comes from the portrait painter David Larned from Pennsylvania, accompanied by his wife Sarah, they are both huge Dogfish Head fans. This interesting brew pours garnet color with a thin white fizzy head. Aromas of black raspberry and blueberry are the most pronounced along with hints of citrus. The palate is not dominated by the fruit like you would think, it is definitely there but it is different than you expect. The fruit is balanced with a nice amount of malts, a great acidity and fine bubbles that are almost Champagne like. If you are looking for something new and interesting to try, this is it.

$13.99/750ml

Rating: 9.0 out of 10