Another impressive effort is their 100% Tempranillo, the 2008 Crianza. From a more challenging vintage, this unfined/unfiltered cuvee spent 14 months in French and American oak. Its deep ruby/plum color is followed by notes of cedar wood, crushed chalk, black currants, cherries and hints of herbs and underbrush. This supple-textured, medium-bodied, deliciously fruity, deep red should drink well for 4-6 years.
One of my favorite wineries in Rioja, Sierra Cantabria is owned by the Eguren family (who also own the Dominio de Eguren estate).
Importer: Value Wines from Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA, tel. (781) 461-5767; Fax (781) 461-2570; www.jorgeordonez.com