Bodegas y Vinas Elias Mora’s 2008 Elias Mora is 100% Tinta de Toro aged for 6 months in new American oak and bottled without fining or filtration (as were each of these 3 wines). Dark ruby-colored, it displays an enticing perfume of cedar, tobacco, spice box, violets, plum, and blackberry. Ripe, rich, and fleshy, it has layers of succulent fruit, excellent balance, and a forward personality. Drink this lengthy effort over the next 8 years. Importer: Aurelio Cabestrero, Grapes of Spain, Lorton, VA; www.grapesofspain.com

Dark and rubbery on the nose, but also lightly leafy and herbal, with oak and coffee for cover up. The palate is good but slightly rough and narrow, and the flavors are not as deep and developed as they have been in the past. Plum, berry and herbal flavors are good but lead to a short, modest finish. Vintage 2008 was not a good one, and this wine reflects that. ——M.S.(2/1/2011)—— 86