The 2008 La Nieta, tasted from barrel, is purple-colored with a racy, slightly high-toned perfume of mineral, lavender, spice box, incense, and black cherry. This is followed by a dense, structured wine with plenty of savory fruit for balance. This will be an elegant version of La Nieta that should evolve for 4-5 years and drink well through 2030. (Not yet released) 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

Smoke, toast and mineral notes mingle in this firm red, backing ripe blackberry and licorice flavors. This offers juicy acidity, good focus and a clean, leafy finish. Drink now through 2015. 50 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add