This red is round and graceful. Black cherry and licorice flavors mingle with leafy, smoky and spicy notes, supported by light tannins and lively acidity. Not muscular, but harmonious. Drink now through 2024. 8,550 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

Cocoa and coffee notes mingle with plum and raisin flavors in this ripe and generous red, which has firm tannins and balsamic acidity. Tarry licorice finish. Drink now through 2020. 7,400 cases made, 2,000 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

Black cherry, leafy, tobacco, smoke and licorice flavors mingle in this round red, with light, firm tannins and fresh acidity providing focus. Harmonious. Drink now through 2018. 9,500 cases made, 900 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

The 2010 Tobía Selección Crianza started off with animal-like aromas and, fortunately, it seemed to overcome that phase with time, showing more graphite, peat, smoke and spices and a core of black cherries with licorice and Chinese ink aromas. Today, this is my favorite of the collection, where I see more harmony and round tannins, good acidity and balance. This 2013 blends Tempranillo with 10% Graciano and 5% Garnacha, and the 20 months in used French and American barrels seemed right enough. Bottled in different-sized bottles, around 75,000 liters

The 2009 Seleccion Crianza is a blend of 80% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano and 10% Garnacha which comes through as very balsamic, with mint and hints of eucalyptus, very fresh with ripe dark cherries, licorice and spices and a fluid palate, medium-bodied, with good acidity and clean flavors that linger in the mouth. A no-nonsense modern Crianza at a great price. Drink 2014-2017. Tasting through Oscar Tobia’s collection was great fun, as his wines are different and often surprising. It was like a trip on a roller coaster, especially if you taste without looking at the technical sheets or the back labels, something that when you’re tasting lots of very similar wines, gives you a welcome break. Imported by Patagonia Wine & Imports, Hanahan, SC; tel. (864) 630-6738; and Matinucus Wine LLC, Beverly Hills, FL; www.matinicuswine.com