18 – Condado de Haza Ribera del Duero –
This rich red shows a deep core of plum, bramble and mineral, with notes of loam and game that impart a savory character. Solid tannins support a thick texture, while balsamic acidity keeps this balanced. Austere but harmonious. Drink now through 2024. 35,000 cases made. —TM
22 – Cune Rioja Gran Reserva –
This generous red shows a traditional character, with leafy, dried herb, tea and spice notes framing dried cherry, licorice and leather flavors. Firm tannins and balsamic acidity impart structure, and this shows plenty of depth, with a juicy, spicy finish. Drink now through 2025. 600 cases imported. —TM
26 – Bodegas y Viñedos Maurodos Toro San Román –
The polished texture masks depth and muscle in this powerful red, which shows blackberry, anise, tar and mineral flavors, with spicy and floral highlights. Firm tannins and fresh acidity lend good balance. Expressive, in an austere way. Drink now through 2027. 7,750 cases made. —TM
39 – Bodegas Borsao Garnacha Campo de Borja Tres Picos –
A plush texture masks the firm structure of this red, as blackberry and boysenberry flavors mingle with notes of toast, menthol and mineral, backed by well-integrated tannins and juicy acidity. A modern style, with balance and depth. Drink now through 2020. 10,000 cases made. —TM
52 – Bodegas Palacios Remondo Rioja La Montesa Crianza –
A thick texture carries plum tart, orange peel, toasted vanilla and anise flavors in this ripe version, balanced by juicy acidity. The spicy, berry-scented finish is long and pure. Drink now through 2023. 10,800 cases imported. —TM
56 – Bodegas Cepa 21 Ribera del Duero –
This aromatic red is graceful on the palate, with cherry, strawberry, licorice and vanilla notes mingling over light tannins, kept lively by bright acidity. This has a tender texture, but shows depth and focus. Drink now through 2021. 16,000 cases made. —TM
62 – Bodegas Ontañon Viura Rioja Vetiver –
This bold white marries expressive flavors to a muscular texture. Pear and quince notes mingle with brioche, chamomile and dried pineapple details, with juicy acidity and light tannins lending support. Lively now, this should harmonize with time. Drink now through 2024. 2,000 cases made. —TM
65 – La Rioja Alta Rioja 904 Gran Reserva –
This supple red delivers bright, focused flavors of dried cherry, orange peel, vanilla, sandalwood, tobacco and spice, with light tannins and fresh acidity. An elegant rendering of the traditional style. Drink now through 2022. 12,500 cases made. —TM
75 – Bodegas Godeval Valdeorras Viña Godeval Cepas Vellas –
Pear, peach and quince flavors mingle in this expressive white, while notes of mineral, tangerine and ginger add complexity. Shows depth and focus, with a clean, juicy finish. Drink now. 1,800 cases imported. —TM
