The 2006 Crianza was aged for 14 months in new French and American oak. Deep crimson-colored, it offers up aromas of wood smoke, mineral, damp earth, and black cherry. Medium to full-bodied, on the palate it exhibits spice notes, toasty oak, moderate tannin, and savory dark fruit. Well-balanced, it will evolve for another 1-2 years but can be enjoyed now. The Protos wines are 100% Tinta del Pais (Tempranillo). Importer: RV Distributors, Jersey City, NJ; tel. (973) 841- 0216

Very ripe, with berry pie aromas that are soft as a pillow. Pastry and cookie flavors mix with raisin, prune and blackberry on the soft, saturated palate, while the finish is heady, warm and chocolaty. Not a lot of vitality here; richness is its calling card. Drink immediately.——M.S.(12/15/2009)—— 87