The 2010 Pagos del Moncayo Garnacha (65%) – Syrah (35%) was also raised in tank but it is a more substantial offering with layered fruit, plenty of spicy black fruit flavor, a forward, pleasure-bent personality, and a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. It is an excellent value. Although it was only founded eight years ago, Pagos del Moncayo works exclusively with fruit over 80 years of age. Having just made my first trip to Campo de Borja in January, 2011, I can now see what makes that possible. It is a place that seemingly dropped off the planet nearly a century ago (after the vines were planted) and has seemingly only just been rediscovered in the past 10 years. Here old-vine Garnacha is King with bush vines that look like small trees planted on stony soil similar to, dare I say it, parts of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Importer: Axial Wines USA; www.axialvinos.com

Floral red berry aromas vie with red licorice and raspberry candy scents on what is basically a sweet-smelling nose. Fairly dense and concentrated in the mouth, but narrow, with cherry and berry flavors. Finishes medicinal and slightly herbal.——M.S.(12/15/2011)—— 86