The 60% Syrah 30% Tempranillo and 10% Garnacha 2011 Alto Sios aged for one year in 300-liter French oak barrels, which has organic aromas of compost, peat and macerated damsons that are very ripe and verging on overripe. The palate feels a bit flat and shows limited acidity and developed flavors. This seems to be a warm, difficult vintage here. 32,000 bottles produced.

The 2010 Alto Sios is a blend of Syrah (60%), Tempranillo (30%) and Garnacha (10%) aged for one year in French oak barrels, but it seems to have taken the wood quite well, and the oak is quite integrated and the aromas that dominate are those from the fruit, blueberries and violets, quite influenced by the Syrah, with a Northern Rhone character complemented by some herbal Mediterranean aromas and a medium-bodied palate, with polished tannins and supple fruit. A very pleasant blend. Drink now-2017. This is a new winery in the appellation Costers del Segre. Importer: The Spanish Wine Importers, Travis Vernon, Stafford, VA; tel. (352) 219-3976, www.importingspain.com

The 2006 Alto Sios is composed of Syrah and Tempranillo. It is a straightforward, savory wine with layered black fruits, plenty of spice, and succulent flavors. This pleasure-bent wine can be enjoyed over the next 4-5 years. Importer: Tenzing Wine & Spirits, Chicago, IL