The 2008 Collecion Mazuelo (100% Carignan) was fermented with native yeasts and spent 14 months in new French oak. It remained sur lie throughout with batonnage during the first 4 months. Opaque purple in color, it offers up earthy, underbrush, mineral-dominated aromas along with hints of balsamic, coffee, and black fruits. On the palate it presents a firm acid structure to balance the fruit, excellent volume, and a lengthy finish. It merits another 3-4 years of cellaring and should see its 20th birthday in fine form. Bodega Dinastia Vivanco is a must visit for wine tourists. The winery is designed to be accessible to visitors but the principal attraction is the finest wine museum I have ever seen. Called Museo de la Cultura del Vino, it is beautifully designed and filled to the brim with artifacts from all aspects of wine from farming to drinking. As for the wines, Dinastia Vivanco has been flying under the radar screen but with a new importer on board, it is highly likely that their wine will receive greater exposure. Importer: Opici Wines , www.opiciwines.com

A crusty smelling wine with aromas of crude oil, roasted nuts and modest berry fruit. Feels acidic and scratchy, with balsamic flavors and a chalky finish. Prickly and teetering on sour, with a lasting herbal impression. ——M.S.(2/1/2012)—— 85