Would a world-class wine for less than €15 appeal to you? La Casilla 2023, produced by Bodegas y Viñedos Ponce, is a red wine which recently received an astonishing 94 Parker Points! That places it in the same category as wines which cost many multiples more!

This relatively unknown wine is produced from the Bobal grape, a mostly disregarded variety native to Spain, which thrives in the high-altitude vineyards of the Manchuela region of Castilla-La Mancha. The region’s continental climate and rich limestone and clay soils, allows for a slow, even ripening, creating more concentrated flavours. In addition, Bodegas Ponce uses vines that are between 35 and 70 years, saying that this ensures greater richness and depth in the wines.

Morbi vitae purus dictum, ultrices tellus in, gravida lectus.

La Casilla is aged for 10 months in oak barrels, which permits the wine to mature without its essential character being overpowered. The 2023 vintage (fresh, complex, and well-balanced) is a deep cherry-red colour with aromas of red and black berries, chocolate, cinnamon, and pepper. It offers a smooth, spicy taste with a lingering finish that begs for another sip.

Retailing for around 12 to 15 euros, La Casilla offers exceptional value for money, and should cost a lot more. It’s not always available in major Spanish supermarkets, but you can find it in specialty wine shops or online if you search “La Casilla 2023” or “Ponce La Casilla Bobal 2023”.

Morbi vitae purus dictum, ultrices tellus in, gravida lectus.

La Casilla pairs deliciously with grilled lamb chops, beef stew, braised short ribs, pasta with wild mushroom sauce, stuffed bell peppers with rice, Spanish chorizo or morcilla (blood sausage), aged Manchego, duck breast, pizza with roasted vegetables, and spicy sausage. It reacts best to the palate at around 18°C. And with proper storage, it can age beautifully for 5 to 7 years, improving over time.

If, like me, you enjoy discovering excellent inexpensive Spanish wine, then this is one you should try. And if you’re curious about other good value Spanish red wines under €15, then you should also try El Castro de Valtuille Joven (Bierzo), Viña Real Crianza (Rioja), Coto de Hayas Garnacha Centenaria (Campo de Borja), or Laya by Atalaya (Almansa).

Have you enjoyed any good value Spanish wines lately? Do you have any tips? Let us know below.