The 2010 Mas Irene is a blend of 69% Merlot and 31% Cabernet Franc aged in new French oak barrels for 13 months. The oak is still at the forefront with notes of spice box, pencil shavings and dark chocolate, while the fruit takes a back seat in the shape of ripe damsons. The palate is medium-bodied with abundant, dusty tannins, moderate acidity and a roasted finish. It needs time to digest the oak. Drink 2015-2017. All Pares Balta grapes are organically certified, and some vineyards are already cultivated following biodynamic principles. Importer: Broadbent Selections Inc., Richmond, VA; tel. (804) 353-1818, www.broadbent.com

The 2005 Mas Irene is made up of 78% Merlot and 22% Cabernet Franc aged for 13 months in new French oak. Aromas of balsam wood, clove, sage, black currant, and blackberry lead to a wine with a bit of underlying structure, savory flavors with good depth, and solid length. Give it 1-2 years of additional cellaring and drink it from 2012 to 2020. Pares Balta is a large winery in Penedes making an assortment of wines mostly of solid quality. Importer: Bryce McNamee, Boutique Wine Collection, Philadelphia, PA; tel. (914) 954-6583

Black cherry fruit struggles to emerge from coffee, mineral and smoke flavors in this firm, extracted red. The finish is a bit dry. Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now. 4,000 cases made, 500 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Penedès Select to Add