A strong whiff of wintergreen cements the wine’s herbal status; it seems as though the grapes were likely picked to beat the heat but maybe weren’t fully ripe. Hence the wine shows lean strawberry and raspberry characteristics, and always there’s that shot of green.——M.S.(11/1/2007)—— 82

Raw and barky on the bouquet, with bits of green and leather mixed in. Tastes of cherry and plum, with serious tannins making for a grabby mouthfeel. Finishes with ample vanilla and toast. Imported by Haro Imports. ——M.S.(2/1/2006)—— 85

A commonplace yet good Tempranillo, with red-fruit aromas and some leather. Cherry and strawberry grace the racy palate, which is carried by hard tannins and raw acids. Tastes good but the mouthfeel is rough. A true country wine in every sense of the word.——M.S.(3/1/2005)—— 86