The 2005 Carmelo Rodero Crianza is 90% Tempranillo and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 15 months in a mix of new and used French and American oak. It was bottled unfined and unfiltered (as were the two remaining wines). Purple-colored, it exhibits a very spicy perfume including notes of cedar, blackberry, black currant, and plum. Smooth textured, plush, and sweetly-fruited, it has enough structure to evolve for 2-3 years. This sexy effort should drink well through 2020. Importer: Jose Pastor, Vinos and Gourmet, Richmond, CA; tel. (510) 237-0077

Savoury nose with plenty of oak. Oak dominates at the moment, but enough fruit to support.