The 2005 La Nieta is a large-scaled wine combining power and elegance. Loaded with succulent black fruits and lots of spice, this voluminous effort is impeccably balanced and lengthy. It has the stuffing to evolve for another 8-10 years and have a 30 year lifespan. Vinedos de Paganos, one of the outstanding Rioja estates, is owned by the Eguren family. The El Puntido cuvee comes from the single Tempranillo vineyard of the same name planted in 1975. It is typically aged in new French oak for 18 months before bottling without filtration. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

Broad-shouldered and well-upholstered, this modern red delivers mouthfilling flavors of blackberry, blueberry, chocolate and spice. The texture is almost syrupy, yet the thick, soft tannins and bright acidity keep this focused and balanced. Drink now through 2020. 50 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add