Pago de Tharsys Bobal 2023

Olivia Wong — Solid weeknight red

7/10

Picked this up from my local wine shop because the guy behind the counter said it was great value. He wasn't wrong — really nice fruit flavours and a bit of warmth from the 14% but it doesn't feel boozy. Had it with a slow-cooked beef stew and it was spot on. For under £11 I'd definitely buy it again.

Isla McCallister — Decent enough for the price

6/10

Got this as part of a mixed case and it's alright. Good structure and the fruit is balanced, not jammy or anything. It's quite warming at 14% so probably more of a winter wine for me. Not bad at all but I wouldn't go out of my way to track it down again.

Penelope Hart — Surprised by this one

7/10

Never heard of Bobal before but gave this a go after seeing it recommended online. Really expressive nose on it — you can smell it as soon as you pour. There's a nice acidity that keeps it fresh and it's got more going on than most reds at this price. Would happily drink this with pasta or just on its own.