Joan d’Anguera’s 2008 Planella is a blend of Mazuelo, Syrah, Garnacha, and Cabernet Sauvignon aged in French and American oak for 11 months. Purple-colored with legs that coat the glass, it gives up a nose of spicy black fruits leading a friendly, forward, succulent wine that offers great value. Drink it over the next 6 years. Importer: Andre Tamers, De Maison Selections, Chapel Hill, NC; www.demaisonselectioons.com

Well-balanced and clean aromas of ripe berry fruit, sweat and leather. Smooth palate with a good balance, integrated oak and grainy tannins. Spicy, warm and mouthfilling with a savoury minerality on the finish. Alc: 15%.