Owned by the well-known journalist, wine expert and wine producer Victor de la Serna, this small operation of 26 acres produces several more expensive cuvées, but their value wine is the 2011 Signo Bobal. Fashioned from 90% Bobal and 10% Syrah, it spent 11 months in 225- and 300-liter oak barrels (85% French and 15% American), and was bottled unfined and unfiltered. There are 500 cases of this cuvée, which over-delivers in many different ways. First of all, it is a showcase for the indigenous Bobal grape that was planted in 1939. The addition of Syrah seems to flesh out the wine, resulting in a dense purple-colored 2011 offering notes of blueberries, blackberries, graphite and white flowers. Exhibiting a seamless integration of acidity, wood, tannin and alcohol, this beauty represents fabulous value at $23 a bottle. It should evolve for up to a decade.

Smoky and woodsy notes frame the tart black cherry fruit in this lean, firm red, with meaty and licorice flavors adding interest. Fresh acidity balances the firm tannins. Focused and energetic. Drink now through 2019. 1,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Manchuela Select to Add