The 2009 Matarromera Crianza comes from Pago de San Roman and it is aged for 14 months in 70% American and 30% French oak with 70% new barrels. It has a clean, pleasant bouquet that unfurls nicely: black cherries, raisin and a touch of blueberry that remains nicely focused. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, chewy tannins. There is a touch of aggression toward the finish with spice and white pepper. It needs to show a little more finesse but it demonstrates fine persistency. Drink now-2016. Importer: Matarromera USA, Hoboken, NJ; tel. (310) 625-5301; and for New York and New Jersey: Carlos Hubner-Arteta, Vinos Libres, New York, NY; tel. (917) 282-6994

Crisp and focused, this red offers cherry and spice flavors with an herbal edge. A bit rustic but fresh, with good grip. Drink now through 2015. 55,000 cases made, 2,000 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Ribera del Duero Select to Add