There are 6000 cases of the 2009 Maximo Tempranillo, sourced from the obscure DO of Vina de la Tierra de Castilla located within La Mancha. The wine spent 6 months in American oak but it barely registers. It emerges from the glass with sophisticated aromas of spice box, incense, violets, and black cherry that are well above its class. This pleasure-bent offering is an excellent value that will prove to be be a crowd-pleaser over the next 4 years. Importer: Frederick Wildman & Sons, New York, NY; Tel. (202) 355-0700

Dusty plum and black cherry aromas feature a touch of dry oak. Tight, snappy and properly tannic in the mouth, with full berry, baked plum and background spice flavors. Finishes with control and power; good red wine for the price. ——M.S.(2/1/2012)—— 87