The 2009 Eclat is composed of 65% Carignan and 35% Mourvedre which saw 80% of the wine aged in 20% new, mostly French oak with the balance in stainless steel. The Carignan was sourced from 60-year-old head-pruned vineyards. This full-bodied offering displays aromas of cedar, underbrush, brier, earthy minerals, plum, and black currant. Dense and packed on the palate, it has the fruit for balance along with enough structure to support 5-7 years of additional cellaring. Drink this slightly rustic effort from 2017 to 2024. Importer: Laird & Co., Scobeyville, NJ; tel. (732) 542-0312

Good for Valdivieso that they are willing to experiment with a Mourvedre-led blend that also contains Carignan and Syrah. This is racy and a bit tangy, with plenty of old-vines acidity making the wine a bit jumpy and scouring. Probably best with food; it’s a bit astringent on its own.——M.S.(7/1/2008)—— 86

Here’s an unusual mix of Syrah and Carignan that runs lean and racy. The nose offers more spice and leather than ripeness, while the palate is downright tangy and teetering on sharp. Freshness and power are not issues; but it might be too tangy and citrusy for anyone expecting a beefy, extracted wine.——M.S.(9/1/2007)—— 86