For Navarran Merlot-Cab, Inurrieta Norte is always a winner. This vintage has good darkness along with smooth aromas of black fruit, earth, rubber and spice. It’s a bit acidic and shrill as a tasting wine but will do fine at the table. The mouth is spunky and shows slightly herbal raspberry and plum flavors. Finishes light and easy.——M.S.(12/15/2010)—— 87

Bold, forward and a little roasted and rustic, with solid berry/cherry aromas grounding the bouquet. This is a healthy blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and the berry fruit is stout and warm, with vanilla and cream on the finish. Maintains its freshness; good Navarran wine that’s ripe. ——M.S.(11/1/2009)—— 87

Red values under $25. Recommended and tasted, but no tasting note given.

The 2004 Norte, an internationally styled blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, spent 5 months in French and American oak. Dark ruby-colored, it gives up aromas of earth and pencil lead with a hint of red currant. The fruit elements make an appearance on the medium-bodied palate with sweet currant and cranberry predominating. This balanced wine should be drunk over the next 2-3 years. Importer: Andres Arribas, Wine Associates Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ; (908) 534-8946

This wine is making its American debut this fall. It’s a blend of Merlot and Cabernet, with ripe plum and blackberry aromas along with balsamic notes. Flavor-packed and round; a wine to keep in mind when “value” is what you’re after. ——M.S.(10/1/2004)—— 88