2002 Bodegas Muga Rose

Rioja is most identified with the svelte reds made from the Tempranillo grape. A small amount of white wine is made there too. And an even smaller amount of rosado, or rose.

Bodegas Muga, a top Rioja estate founded in 1932 and best known for its flagship Rioja, Prado Enea, makes a rose that is a stunning bargain at about $6. Pale salmon-pink in color, it’s dry and fruity with a light scent of strawberry and the barest hint of oak. The blend is mostly Garnacha (Grenache) with Tempranillo and a little Viura, the region’s white grape.

It’s a great summer party wine, and at this price, you can pour with abandon. Serve it as an aperitif with toast spread with tapenade. It’s also terrific with everything from gazpacho and salads to grilled fish and roast chicken.

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Quick swirl

Region: Rioja, Spain

Price: About $6.

Style: Dry and fruity

Food it goes with: Gazpacho, salads, grilled fish, pretty much anything light and summery.

Where you find it: Available at fine wine shops and

retailers.