Bodegas Campoameno, Vega Badenes Tempranillo/Merlot/Syrah 2025

Bodegas Campoameno's Vega Badenes is a thoroughly likeable everyday red built around Tempranillo, fleshed out with Merlot and Syrah in a blend that, on paper, might raise an eyebrow but in the glass simply works. It's light on its feet, bright with red berry fruit, and has the kind of soft, chewy texture that makes a second glass feel entirely inevitable. The tannins are unobtrusive, the finish clean and fruity, and there's nothing here trying to be more serious than it is — which, frankly, is part of the appeal. This is a wine made for living with rather than agonising over. Barbecues, casual suppers, large gatherings where you need something crowd-pleasing and easy to pour generously — this fits the brief perfectly.