Celler Joan Simo’s 2006 Sentius is a blend of 48% Garnacha and the balance Carinena, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah from the estate’s younger vines aged for 15 months in French oak. A glass-coating opaque purple/black color, it offers up a nose of mineral, espresso, pepper, licorice, black cherry, and plum. Dense, rich, and full-bodied on the palate, it has terrific volume and concentration for its price. It is an amazing value in Priorat for drinking over the next 6-8 years. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

Dark, spicy fruit and spicy compote perfume. Youthful, oak and fresh palate with vigorous tannins and lots of potential. Multi-dimensional wine with a long blackcurrant and mineral finish. Characterful and pure expression. Alc: 15%.

A little heavy at first, but airing reveals a robust and stirring bouquet of plum and berry aromas mixed with coffee and leather. The palate is pure and deep, with a lush set of blackberry, ripe plum and berry syrup flavors. Shows a fine structure, a long and warm finish, and the potential to age another 5–8 years. ——M.S.(2/1/2011)—— 92