A multi-grape red blend, the 2012 Mallaura contains Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell that feels ripe with 15.2% alcohol and 3.8 pH. It matured for 14 months in French oak barrels and it has some oak notes that are well intermixed with the fruit. It's quite ripe and more extracted than El Vern. The palate reveals plenty of tannin, with some astringency; it is powerful and will need some time in bottle to calm down. For fans of the style. 8,000 bottles.

The 2006 Mallaura is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance Tempranillo, Monastrell, and Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet) aged for 14 months in a mix of new and used French oak. Purple-colored, it offers up aromas of damp earth, underbrush, mushroom, spice box, black cherry, and blueberry. Ripe, concentrated, and smooth textured, this is a forward, tasty effort for drinking over the next 4-5 years. Importer: Steve Miles Selections, Denver, CO; tel. (303) 495-3811

The 2005 Mallaura is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Tempranillo, 15% Monastrell, and 10% Garnacha Tintorerra aged for 14 months in a mix of new and used French oak. Dark ruby-colored, it presents notes of cedar, spice box, tobacco, red currant, and cherry. Smooth-textured with some elegance, it offers ample spicy red fruit flavors underpinned by silky tannin. Drink this up-front, tasty wine over the next 8 years. Importer: Steve Miles Selections, Denver, CO; www.heretatdetaverners.com