The 2005 Old Vines Reserva is dark ruby-colored with aromas of kirsch and cherry. Ripe, sweet, and savory, it contains a bit of structure and a lengthy finish. Drink this friendly wine over the next 3-4 years. Navarro Lopez’s new releases offer considerable value. Importer: Quintessential, Napa, CA; www.quintessentialwines.com

Colorful and fresh, with a bit of latex/Band-Aid on the nose to go with bacon, raspberry and oak-based maple aromas. The feel is stout and chewy, while flavors of cassis, cherry and chocolate work well together. An oaky customer but a good and tasty one. Drink now and over the next two years.——M.S.(8/1/2010)—— 88