The 2007 Arrocal is 100% Tinto Fino from estate grown fruit. It was aged in seasoned French and American oak for six months. A glass-coating opaque purple, the nose offers up cedar, tobacco, pencil lead, black cherry, and blackberry. Structured on the palate, it will evolve for 2-3 years and drink well through 2017. Those seeking a fruity, quaffing wine should look elsewhere. This is serious stuff! Importer: Aurelio Cabastrero, Grapes of Spain, Lorton, VA; Tel: (571) 642-0343

Smoky and dry, with aromas of tire rubber and mildly herbal, leafy red fruits. The palate has a dry, rugged, scratchy feel while the flavors veer toward baked raspberry, earth notes and coffee. Finishes nicely, with berry fruit at first and then herbal, oaky afternotes.——M.S.(8/1/2010)—— 88