The 2010 Crianza is a blend of Monastrell, Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon aged for nine months in oak barrels (French & American), with the typical black cherries, licorice and a whiff of smoke often found in the wines of the region. On the palate it is quite ripe and juicy with some astringency and warmth towards the finish. 180,000 bottles produced. Drink 2014-2016. Casa de la Ermita was one of the leading bodegas in the Jumilla appellation at the turn of the century (it was created in 1999). They were the first to produce Petit Verdot in the region and they grew in volume very quickly. I cannot say that I found their last collection of wines very inspiring and I couldn’t recommend some of the wines tasted. They own 153 hectares of vineyards and produce half a million bottles of wines per year. Importer: Massanois Imports, Washington DC; tel. (202) 470-6769

Red values under $25. Recommended and tasted, but no tasting note given.

A strange bird with herbaceous aromas that suggest sage or juniper baking in the summer sun. The palate is acidic and sharp, with green-tinged pie cherry and plum skin flavors. Gritty on the finish, with needling tannins and a final wave of that odd juniper character. 60% Monastell and 40% Petit Verdot.——M.S.(12/15/2010)—— 82