The 2009 Crianza in a blend of 80% Tempranillo and 20% Garnacha and Mazuelo aged for 12 months in used barrels plus six months in bottle. It has a ripe bouquet of fresh strawberry and red cherries that is competently enmeshed with the oak. The palate is fresh and lively with taut tannins. There are notes of dark cherry, licorice and a touch of mocha with a finely-tuned, delineated finish. There is a pleasing brightness to this Crianza that is approachable now and should age with style. Drink now-2019. C.V.N.E. needs absolutely no introduction. It is seen as a bastion of traditional Rioja, and older vintages are revered (even though I myself found some of them rather enervated when tasting in London in 2009). The company owns Contino, which is run independently, as well as Vina Real. Importer: Christopher Cannan. Europvin, www.europvin.com

Smoky and gamy notes shadow cherry, floral and licorice flavors in this smooth red, displaying a rather austere character. Tobacco and toast notes linger on the finish. Drink now through 2015. 300,000 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add