The 2008 Horizonte de Exopto is composed of 65% Tempranillo, 20% Graciano, and 15% Garnacha aged for 10 months in new French and American oak. Dark ruby red in color, it displays a nose redolent of Asian spices, incense, earthy minerals, leather, a hint of balsamic, and assorted black fruits. Spicy, savory, and incipiently complex on the palate, it lacks the depth and concentration of the top Rioja vintages (2001, 2004, 2005) but is a strong effort nonetheless that will benefit from 2-3 years of additional cellaring. Drink it through 2020+. Importer:Ole Imports, New Rochelle, NY; www.oleimports.com

Lively yet polished, this smooth red delivers boysenberry, black cherry, espresso and smoke flavors over firm tannins. A bit austere, but has a core of ripe fruit. Shows good density and focus. Drink now through 2018. 850 cases made, 325 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add