The 2008 Gran Vino Pontac is a blend of 95% Tempranillo and 5% Graciano. It is only produced in benevolent vintages and is aged in French fine-grain barrels for 14 months or more. It has an opulent bouquet with kirsch, cassis and blueberry that is well-defined with just a touch of volatility. The palate is medium-bodied with a smooth entry and is texturally lush and generous. However, there is just a hint of over-ripeness on the fig and fresh prune tinged finish, suggesting that it might have been picked just a day or two too late? It is still enjoyable, however. Drink now-2017. Bodegas Luis Alegre is based in the sub-region of Rioja Alavesa.Importer: Vinos Libres Wine Merchants LLC, New York, NY; tel. (646) 389-4078

The 2007 Pontac Reserva is a blend of 95% Tempranillo and 5% Graciano aged for 18 months in new French oak. Surprisingly large in scale for the vintage, it sports an alluring perfume of Asian spices, incense, smoke, mineral, espresso, and assorted black fruits. Dense, savory, and layered on the palate, this lengthy effort will evolve for 1-2 years and drink well through 2022. Despite the fact that it was founded in 1968, Bodegas Luis Alegre is making its debut in this journal. Two white wines were presented for tasting. Importer:Carlos Hubner-Arteta, Vinos Libres, New York, NY; tel. (917) 282-6994