The 2010 Crianza has pungent aromas of Chinese ink, black licorice, tar and leather that dominate over the notes of blackberries and cassis in the nose. The palate reveals a medium-bodied wine with no edges, intense flavors of dark fruits and spices. This is a style that is very popular, easy to understand and is very good value. Drink 2014-2017. This is the old Heredad de Baroja winery, which was re-founded under the name Lar de Paula in 2002. Imported by The Spanish Wine Importers, Stafford, VA and Well Oiled Wine Company, Leesburg, VA; www.welloiledwineco.com

The 2008 Crianza has a lifted mulberry, sloe and bay leaf scented bouquet with a dash of white pepper. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins on the entry. It is very well-balanced with a rounded, sensual finish that offers touches of pepper and burnt toast. This is a very fine Crianza. Drink now-2018. Bodegas Lar de Paula is owned by Fernando Meruelo and his family, who also own Bodegas Heredad de Baroja. Importer: The Spanish Wine Importers, tvernon@importingspain.com

Aromas of spice, bramble, herb, medicine and toast. Commercial style with clean fruit, hints of chocolate on the mid-palate and good structure. Drink from 2012. Alc: 13.5%. (15.5 points)