Flavium Crianza 2005

• Area: Spain, Bierzo
• Grape: Mencia
• Alcohol: 12.5%
• Rating: Black 91 Dilettante 91 Nwjr 91

Description: Smokey on the nose with an undercurrent of fruit and rose-scented talcum powder. The attack is smooth and supple. Unexpected flavors of florals, unsweetened cotton candy, mulberry, cherry tree bark, and a hint of cardamom dance across the palate. The finish is very dry with notes of mulberry. This wine is elegantly balanced. Decanting not required. Air does change this one considerably by bringing out some dark elements, adding to its complexity. We will definitely buy this gem again.

Price: A most excellent bargain at $9

Tilenus Envejecido En Roble 2001

• Area: Spain, Bierzo
• Grape: Mencia
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Rating: Black; 92 Dilettante; 89

Description: This has a raspberrry, cherry, spice and pool liner nose. Flavors of dark ripe fruits, black pepper, a hint of oak and mineral. The mouth feel is thick with an alcohol tone. The finish is long and spicy with soft tannins. Decanting not required.

Food note: this is not good with pizza or spicy foods.