Castell del Remei’s red entry, the 2008 Gotim Bru, is a blend of 35% Tempranillo, 32% Garnacha, with the balance 3 other varieties that spent 10 months in French and American oak. Medium purple-colored, it gives up a fragrant perfume of Asian spices, violets, cedar, black cherry, and blackberry. Ripe, flavorful, and long on the palate, it delivers remarkable complexity for its humble price. It is an outstanding value. Drink it over the next 6 years. Castell del Remei was founded in 1780 and now consists of nearly 300 acres in western Catalunya. Importer: The Enye Group, Chicago, IL; www.enyegroup.com

A touch flat and leathery on the nose, but it picks up steam as it moves along. The palate is full and thick, with baked berry, cherry, earth and syrup flavors. Offers just enough crisp acidity to keep it balanced, then finishes warm and sweet.——M.S.(12/15/2011)—— 87