A little granular and reduced, with rubber, asphalt, raisin, sage and oregano on the bouquet. It’s a heavy wine with a saturated color and earthy, semi-herbal flavors of blackberry and plum. Shows full oak and some clangy acidity, but for the most part it’s a solid, driving red.——M.S.(11/1/2008)—— 86

Intensely colored and miles better than the label’s troubled basic Tempranillo, this is an Argentinean rendition of Spain’s workhorse grape that showcases berry and plum flavors, plenty of oak and ample chocolate and espresso on the finish. More impressive when taken as a whole; best to drink with barbecue and not get too analytical.——M.S.(6/1/2006)—— 85