The 2008 Tobia Seleccion Crianza is a blend of 80% Tempranillo, 10% Garnacha, 10% Graciano that is aged for?24 months in French and American barriques. It has a classic Rioja bouquet with dark berry fruit, dark chocolate, leather and a scent of hot, steaming espresso. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. At its core is crisp red fruit laced with espresso and white pepper with attractive focus on the poised, fresh finish. This is a very fine Crianza that should drink well over the next four or five years. Drink now-2017. Bodegas Tobia is an artisan winery based in San Asensio. Oscar Tobia, together with Ana Costello, resurrected the old family bodega that is now equipped with stainless steel tanks. Here, the carbon dioxide resulting from alcoholic fermentation is re-directed to the top of the tank and thus protects the cap from oxidation during pumping over. They also have a policy of picking fruit with higher acidity levels, which came through in their very commendable range of wines. Importer: Steven Berardi Selections, Denver, CO; tel. (303) 838-1963