The 2009 Barrel Select 60/40 is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot aged in French and American oak for 6 months. Dark ruby in color, it sports a pleasing perfume of cassis, tobacco, herbs, and cherry blossom. Medium-bodied, supple, and friendly, this easy-drinking Blend is a very good value that will provide enjoyment over the next 2-3 years. Santa Ema has been a reliable source of value priced wines for a number of years. Importer: TGIC Importers, Woodland Hills, CA; www.tgicimporters.com

Rubber and earth aromas lead to a mix of berry fruit scents and a pinch of vinegar. It’s firm in the mouth, with cranberry and herbal raspberry flavors. Gives about as much as it can but at the same time it shows a tart, basic, mildly herbal DNA. ——M.S.(4/1/2011)—— 84