The grapes for the 2008 LZ were sourced from the eastern part of Rioja. The wine is 100% Tempranillo fermented and raised in stainless steel. It proffers a fragrant perfume of spice box, mineral and black cherry compote, the fruit displaying a slightly roasted character that adds flavor interest. Sweetly-fruited, savory, and impeccably balanced, this is an impressive introduction to the Rioja version of the Tempranillo grape. The talented Telmo Rodriguez makes a wide range of high quality wines from both ends of the price spectrum. Importer: Michael Quinttus, Vintus Wines; www.vintuswines.com

Smells earthy, leathery and a bit gaseous before you get to a broad palate of stretched berry flavors, vanilla and herbal notes. There are good points here but also gaps in the wine, including a tomatoey quality to the flavor profile. Improves a bit with airing but still it struggles to make the grade. ——M.S.(6/1/2010)—— 85