I found more oak in the more modern 2013 Pagos de la Sonsierra Reserva. There is also higher acidity and less volume, reflecting a leaner vintage. I fear the oak might dominate the wine, so you better drink up. 15,000 bottles produced.

The 2012 Pagos de la Sonsierra felt oakier, with aromas of roasted sesame seeds and charred oak slowly taking over as the wine sat in the glass. This is pure Tempranillo aged in French oak barrels for 16 months. It's a shame that the wine feels overoaked, because there is good fruit underneath. 15,000 bottles produced.

The 2008 Pagos de la Sonsierra Reserva is pure Tempranillo aged for 16 months in barrel and 26 months in bottle. Tasted twice, this Reserva feels a little overdone on the potent nose with small dark cherries, black currant pastilles and cassis. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and good delineation on the entry. This is not a powerful Rioja, nor is it complex, but it demonstrates better balance than the nose implied, plus it has a pleasing sweet orange peel-tinged finish. This is a competent Rioja that should drink well over the next five or six years. Drink now-2019. Importer: Monsieur Touton Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 255-0674