The 2008 b.b. (Big Bang) is a blend of 50% Garnacha, 40% Tempranillo, and 10% Graciano. The Graciano and Tempranillo components were aged in barrel for 9 months. It displays aromas of white pepper, spice box, tobacco, cassis, and black cherry leading to a medium-bodied, moderately complex wine with ample sweet fruit, good balance, and a pleasure-bent personality. Drink this outstanding value over the next 5-6 years. Exopto Cellars’ three new releases are all outstanding. Importer: Ole Imports, New Rochelle, NY; www.oleimports.com

The entry level b.b. de Exopto (Big Bang) is composed of 50% Garnacha, 40% Tempranillo, and 10% Graciano. The Garnacha was raised in concrete vats, the Tempranillo and Graciano in oak for nine months. Dark ruby colored, it offers up an exceptionally spicy nose (from the Graciano) along with floral notes, underbrush, cassis, cherry, and plum. Medium-to full-bodied on the palate, it has layers of flavor, excellent acidity, savory fruit, and enough structure to evolve for 2-3 years. It will be at its best from 2010 to 2017. Exopto Cellars is located within the cool Rioja Alavesa sub zone in the town of Laguardia. Importer: Patrick Mata, Ole Imports, New Rochelle, NY; www.oleimports.com

The 2006 Big Bang is 50% Garnacha, 40% Tempranillo, and 10% Graciano. The Tempranillo and Graciano were aged for 9 months in barrel. Purple colored, the wine offers up a nose of cedar, spice box, lavender, black cherry and blackberry. This is followed by a full-flavored, loaded, primary wine with a supple-texture, layers of fruit, excellent richness and balance, and a pure finish. This tasty wine will evolve for 2-3 years but can be enjoyed now and over the next 6-8 years. Importer: Patrick Mata, Ole Imports; www.oleimports.com