The 2008 Dinastia Vivanco Crianza is made from 100% Tempranillo and aged for 16 months in French and American oak. Balsam wood, tobacco, cinnamon, clove, violets, and black fruit aromas lead to a ripe, sweetly-fruited, nicely proportioned Crianza that is likely to blossom for another 1-2 years and drink well through 2020. 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 but with a new importer on board, it is highly likely that their wine will receive greater exposure. Importer: Opici Wines , www.opiciwines.com

Earthy berry aromas come with rubbery notes, tobacco and bramble. The feel is scratchy but lively, with flavors of lean red fruits, dry oak and milk chocolate. Oaky on the finish, with some heat. Needs food to help it along.——M.S.(4/1/2012)—— 85