The 2008 Can Feixes Negre Tradicio is a blend of Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot aged in oak barrels. The nose seems to be dominated by the aromas of the Bordeaux grapes, with notes of black pepper, raspberry leaves, blackberries and cassis, with some creamy oak and sweet spices thrown in. The palate is medium-bodied with some grainy tannins and a fresh herbaceous note toward the finish. A well-crafted, pleasant, if slightly anonymous, red blend. Drink now-2017. Can Feixes is a good source for clean, true-to-their-type, affordable wines. I had a preview of a very good 2008 Chardonnay which I enjoyed, but they won’t release it until 2015, so it will hopefully be reviewed in the next round. Cal Raspallet has quickly made a name for itself with the white Nun Vinya dels Taus, a well-oaked Xarello from a single vineyard organically farmed in the heart of Penedes. Importer: Steve Metzler, Bonafide Wines, Seattle, WA; tel. (206) 297-6713

Coffee and loamy earth notes frame plum and dried herb flavors in this savory red. Orange-peel acidity and grippy tannins keep this focused. Drink now. 4,000 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Penedès Select to Add