The 2008 Tempranillo (87% Tempranillo, 9% Graciano and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon) could easily compete with the equally priced values that emerge from Spain. There are 5,400 cases so availability should not be a problem for most readers. Broad black cherry and black currant fruit notes intermixed with spice box notes are followed by an elegant, round, lush, sexy, medium-bodied wine that is meant to be consumed over the next 2-3 years. High quality, appealing, value-priced wines emerge from winemaker Dan Cedarquist under the Matchbook label.Tel. (530) 662-1032 (Crew Wine Co.)

The score reflects the rich cherry, blackberry, cola and smoked meat flavors in this dry, crisp, silky wine. But it also takes into account a certain funkiness and one-dimensional simplicity.——S.H.(12/15/2010)—— 84

Shows the many difficulties of getting this finicky variety right. The wine is tough and gritty in tannins and scoury acids, with some unripe cherry, mint and sage flavors. But it’s very dry and the alcohol is moderate.——S.H.(4/1/2010)—— 84

A little rough around the edges in tannins, with minty cherry flavors, but the wine is dry and shows some complexity in its own way. You have to give Matchbook credit for experimenting with this finicky variety. A reserve bottling would be welcome.——S.H.(11/15/2008)—— 86