For those of you unfamiliar with the grape varietal Tinta Fina, you might know it by its more common name – Tempranillo. Aromas of cassis and toasted oak are found in the nose of this Spanish red. The palate is structured with moderate tannins. Dry, flavors of berries, licorice and herbs deliver a wonderfully long finish. This red goes great with barbecued beef, and it is also light enough to accompany chicken as well.

A terrific bouquet of black cherry, toasted oak and bittersweet chocolate announces this wine. The palate is balanced, medium bodied and structured. Give the wine a little time to decant, as it is young and then enjoy the wonderful finish. Flavors of cherry, cassis and herbs prevail. Enjoy now or hold for later enjoyment.

Charles at “K” Vintners has outdone himself with his latest Spain meets Walla Walla, Washington creation called “El Jefe”. This 2002 vintage is a blend of 80% tempranillo and 20% cabernet sauvignon. A bullfight in a bottle, this wine features an exuberant thrust of flavor balanced by the finesse and sustained finish of the triumphant matador.

Cepas Antiguas means 'old vines' in Spanish, and the grapes for this 100% Tempranillo, un-oaked Rioja come from 150 acres of old vines from high slopes on the Corta Family's estate in the heart of Rioja Alta. In 2006, they finished a state of the art, gravity-flow winery on the property to be capable of producing the fully-extracted, fruit driven wines. Ripe, intense black cherry and tobacco on the nose with a solid, chewy blackberry and cracked pepper on the palate and finish.