The 2009 El Regalo is a blend of 90% Malbec and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 14 months in 67% new French oak and bottled without fining or filtration. Wood smoke, spice box, incense, lavender, and assorted black fruits lead to a wine revealing earthy minerals, pepper, and chocolate notes on the palate. Plush and friendly, this is a seductive Malbec blend that will deliver pleasure over the next 6-8 years. The Anoro label is a partnership of the importer, Vine Connections, and master sommelier Ken Fredrickson, with winemaking by Federico Sanchez.Importer: Vine Connections, Sausalito, CA; tel. (415) 332-6466

Game and spice aromas follow through to a jammy palate of blackberry liqueur, cassis and plum sauce notes, tightly wound with layers of spice, mocha and toasty oak that frame the long finish. Drink now through 2012. 1,000 cases imported.??–NW??Region: Argentina / Mendoza Select to Add

The 2008 El Regalo Malbec contains 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and spent 14 months in French oak before bottling without fining or filtration. Deep purple in color with legs that coat the glass, it exhibits an expressive nose of smoke, spice box, earth notes, and black cherry. On the palate it is dense and rich but backward, and in need of at least 3-4 years of additional cellaring. It offers plenty of power but not much subtlety. Drink it from 2013 to 2023. Anoro is a collaboration between importer Vine Connections and Ken Fredickson, M.S. Importer: Vine Connections, Sausalito, CA; tel. (415) 332-8466; fax (415) 332-8668

Dark and juicy, with a nice core of blackberry, plum and currant fruit stitched together with spice and coffee hints. Loses a little drive on the finish, but otherwise solid. Drink now. 150 cases made.??–JM??Region: Argentina / Mendoza Select to Add