Austere as well as herbaceous is the 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon-Tempranillo. A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Tempranillo, aged 13 months in a combination of new and old French oak, this dark ruby/purple-colored wine reveals scents of cigar tobacco, roasted peanuts, and cedar. Medium-bodied, austere, and cleanly made, it represents an attractive value. It will drink well for 2-3 years. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

This is a medium-weight red. Ruby in color with raspberry and blackberry aromas, it’s accented by tar and tobacco notes. There is a slight herbal—some might say weedy—quality, but it has good balance, and it finishes clean and dry.——M.M.(8/1/2000)—— 84