Smoky and gamy notes frame plum and cola flavors in this firm red, with a savory character, leaning toward bitterness. A bit austere, but refreshing, offering light, firm tannins and a clean finish. Drink now through 2015. 5,000 cases made, 800 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

A blend of 80% Tempranillo, 10% Garnacha and 10% Mazuelo and Graciano, the 2011 Erudito Tinto offers a fruit-packed bouquet that is rough around the edges, but as enjoyable as you would expect at this price. The palate is rounded and soft on the entry with low acidity, but displays good clean fruit with a supple strawberry and spice tinged finish. Drink now. My very first visit in Rioja was to Bodegas Olarra, located on the outskirts of Logrono. The estate was established in 1973 and outside the vast Y-shaped winery there are 111 hexagonal “egg box” domes whose function I am still unclear about! This is a large, rather than huge co-operative that oversees a range of worthy Rioja wine that is dependable and thoughtfully made. (See also Bodegas Ondarre that belongs to the same group.) “Cerro Anon” is the more classical side of the Olarra range, according to Javier Martinez de Salinas, a fresh take on Rioja with greater longevity. It generally comes from the older vines from contracted growers from all three sub-regions of Rioja. Importer: Classical Wines Selections, Stamford, CT; tel. (203) 975-2522.