The 2006 Crianza is 100% Tempranillo that spent 14 months in American oak. Dark ruby-colored, it offers up an attractive nose of cedar, spice box, leather, violets, and blackberry. On the palate it is medium-bodied with ample savory fruit leaning toward elegance. It has good concentration and a bit of structure that should permit another 6 years of enjoyable drinking. It is a good value. Importer: W.J. Deutsch & Sons; www.wjdeutsch.com

This modern red shows toasty oak flavors of mocha and smoke, with luscious blackberry and black cherry fruit supported by ripe tannins. Balanced and lively. Drink now through 2014. 16,824 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

This is a smooth, subdued style of Rioja that’s perfect for tapas or casual consumption. The nose offers the right kind of entry: cherry and raspberry with dusty spice. And the flavors are friendly and suggest black fruits and smoke. A little more oaky and charred than some, but a nice crianza nonetheless. ——M.S.(12/15/2010)—— 88