The 2015 Crianza Coupage Selección is a blend of 40% each Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo with 20% Merlot aged in 300-liter French and American oak barrels for 12 months. It has a nose of ripe berries and candied fruit, with some spicy and creamy notes. The palate is polished and sleek, with fine tannins, easy to drink. 90,000 bottles produced.

The 2011 Crianza Coupage Seleccion is a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Tempranillo and 20% Merlot (a quite common combination in Navarra,) aged for one year in a combination of French and American oak barrels. It has a bright ruby color and a nose dominated by herbal notes of mint, rosemary and fennel intermixed with sweet red fruits. The palate is medium-bodied, with fine tannins and low-ish acidity, fruit-driven and rather simple. Drink now. Castillo de Monjardin was created in 1988 and includes an impressive 220 hectares of vineyards, a considerable extension in Navarra. These are modern wines at (mostly) affordable prices. Importer: Winebow Inc., New York, NY; tel. (201) 930-2450; www.winebow.com