The 2009 Secua is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Syrah from 55-year-old vines in Tarancon that see 20 months in American and the French oak. The problem is that both the nose and palate are far too oaky, which is a shame, because there is some decent dark cherry and blueberry fruit underneath, trying to express their terroir. It is a pleasurable wine, but it does not merit the price tag. Drink now-2015. Importer: Finca La Estacada USA LLC.

The 2004 Secua is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Syrah aged for 20 months in new French oak. Opaque purple-colored, it has a super nose of pain grille, pencil lead, espresso, black currant, and blueberry. Racy on the palate with a suave personality, this tasty, focused wine will offer prime drinking from 2012 to 2024. Importer: Casa Ventura, Bellingham, WA; tel. (360) 303-1760