The purple-colored 2007 Horizonte de Exopto is composed of 80% Tempranillo, 10% Garnacha, and 10% Graciano aged for 10 months in new, predominantly French oak. It exhibits a nose of wood smoke, tobacco, violets, black cherry, and black raspberry. Layered on the palate with succulent fruit, it has excellent volume, concentration and balance with enough structure to evolve for 2-3 years. This lengthy offering will deliver optimal drinking from 2013 to 2022. Exopto Cellars’ three new releases are all outstanding. Importer: Ole Imports, New Rochelle, NY; www.oleimports.com

Condensed, syrupy cherry aromas are a little candied, while the palate is acidic and angular, with juicy, tomatoey cherry and plum flavors. Fairly tight and lean in the mouth, with just enough oak to create a mocha/cocoa accent on the finish. For the price, there isn’t much body, variety of flavor or pleasantries. ——M.S.(6/1/2010)—— 85