2018 Bodegas Enrique Mendoza La Tremenda Monastrell Alicante 750 ml

We can’t stop obsessing over the quality—and value—that Enrique Mendoza’s La Tremenda offers.

And we aren’t the only ones.

Wine Advocate called it “incredible value,” “amazing for the price,” and “really impressive”—all in their 92-point review.

Bodegas Enrique Mendoza is a member of the prestigious Grandes Pagos de España, an invitation-only group of 32 wineries devoted to producing terroir-driven wines of exceptional quality. 

But unlike the $150+ reds that some of their peers produce, Enrique Mendoza stands out, not just for their quality but for the outrageous deals across their lineup. 

Wines of this caliber are possible because of Bodegas Mendoza’s stunning terroir. Perched on a mountainside overlooking the Mediterranean, south of Valencia, their vineyards sit over 2000 feet above sea level. The Monastrell (Mourvèdre) vines sink their roots deep into the sandy, stone-strewn soils, hunting for the scarce pockets of moisture available in this arid climate, so winemaker José “Pepe” Enrique Mendoza Gracia uses computerized sensors to carefully dole out water, avoiding hydric stress and extending the dark-black grapes’ ripening period.

He farms using biodynamic practices—which preclude any commercial insecticides, herbicides, and fertilizers—so that he can bring in grapes with robust native yeasts. After fermentation, a brief six-month aging in French oak ensures that the rough edges are polished but the vivacious fruit remains.

Even in the Spanish value-haven of Alicante, this wine stands out from the pack. It takes the rich fruit that the area’s warmth and sunshine provide and marries it to a beautiful sense of balance and freshness to create a wine that’s perfect with anything grilled or roasted.