The 2007 Coleccion Garnacha is opaque purple with an expressive nose of cedar, leather, Asian spices, balsamic, and black cherry. Mouth-filling, balanced, and savory, it has plenty of succulent fruit and a lengthy, pure finish. It can be enjoyed over the next 6-8 years. Bodega Dinastia Vivanco is a must visit for wine tourists. The winery is designed to be accessible to visitors but the principal attraction is the finest wine museum I have ever seen. Called Museo de la Cultura del Vino, it is beautifully designed and filled to the brim with artifacts from all aspects of wine from farming to drinking. As for the wines, Dinastia Vivanco has been flying under the radar screen. Their previous American importer did little to promote the wines; I had never heard of the Bodega before this visit. However, they now have a national importer who figures to do a much better job. Dinastia Vivanco’s entry level wines offer good value. Importer: Opici Wines , www.opiciwines.com

Powerful and raisiny on the nose, with asphalt, char and cassis. The palate is saturated and sweet, with flavors of black raisin, plum and blackberry. Staunch on the finish, with licorice and blackness. Solid, strong Garnacha. Drink now through 2012.——M.S.(11/1/2010)—— 90