The 2005 Vega Escal is a blend of 60% Carinena, 30% Garnacha, and 10% Syrah aged for six months in French and American oak. Deep crimson-colored, it offers up a spicy bouquet of cedar, mineral, plum, black cherry, and blueberry. This leads to a smooth-textured, layered wine with enough structure to evolve for 2-3 years. This lengthy effort will drink well from 2010 to 2018. Importer: Aurelio Cabestrero, Grapes of Spain; www.grapesofspain.com

A little more straightforward than some of the heavyweights from the Priorat, but still nice and friendly. The nose offers grape jelly and black cherry to get things going, while the palate is slightly buttery and creamy, with vanilla in addition to pure berry flavors. Good, bright, quick on the finish and easy to drink.——M.S.(4/1/2009)—— 88