The 2005 Inspiracion Graciano (100%) spent 20 months in French oak. Deep purple-colored, it offers up a splendid nose of pain grille, pencil lead, violets, Asian spices, licorice, black cherry, and black raspberry. Intense and focused on the palate, mineral notes play a more prominent role with a lift from the wine’s acid structure. Fleshy, savory and lengthy, it will evolve for another 4- 5 years and drink well through 2025. Importer: CIV USA, Sacramento, CA; tel. (800) 669-1972

This lively red is both ripe and fresh, with bright plum and cranberry fruit accented by vanilla and toast. The texture is slightly gritty, but this shows concentration and drive. Drink now through 2018. 500 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

Intense and frisky, with mild green-herbal aromas standing out on the nose. Like any varietal Graciano, the wine is shrill, with acidity pushing the tart side of the huckleberry and blueberry fruit. Lean at the end, with little richness. Best for die-hard Rioja buffs and fans of acidic red wines.——M.S.(6/1/2009)—— 85