The young, fruit-driven and fresh 2014 Crianza had notes of red cherries and a light, vibrant palate, which made it very accessible and easy to understand. A crowd-pleaser. 370,000 bottles produced.

The 2011 Crianza from Montecillo is a classical Rioja, mostly Tempranillo with 10% Graciano, even though it's considered by the winery to be their modern wine. It does not show any heat from the vintage and feels polished and accessible. Balsamic, soft and rich. This is very good value, too. There is no less than one million bottles of this wine.

A supple texture carries the pretty flavors of berry, cherry, tobacco and vanilla, backed by light tannins and fresh acidity. Well-balanced and lively. Drink now. 60,415 cases made, 2,300 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

The 2009 Crianza is a blend of Tempranillo from different villages aged in used American oak barrels for 15 months, which results in a polished wine, a little shy in the nose, with hints of red fruit, balsamic herbs and a pinch of cinnamon, with round, sweet tannins that make it very easy to drink. Drink 2014-2016. This classical name now belongs to the Osborne group from Jerez, and still represents the pure traditional Rioja style. Following the tradition of past times they still offer some older vintages once they have acquired more complexity and are ready to drink. Imported by Evaton, Inc, Stamford, CT; tel. (203) 968-8220

The 2008 Crianza, pure Tempranillo aged in oak for 12 months, has a light nose of macerated red cherries and a touch of licorice. The palate is medium-bodied with chewy tannins, clean red berry fruit and a sinewy finish that would show better partnered with a hearty meat dish. This is a little rustic, but charming. Drink now-2016. I tasted a trio of very commendable wines from Bodegas Montecillo. The winery was founded in 1874 in Fuenmayor and is presently owned by the Osborne Group. Winemaker Maria Martinez is at the helm and should be commended for producing exemplary wines that speak of their place with great clarity. Importer: William Deutsch & Sons, White Plains, NY; tel. (914) 251-WINE, and Hayman, Barwell & Jones (UK)