This red is crisp and focused. Leaf and cocoa notes frame black cherry, licorice and loamy earth flavors. The moderate tannins are well-integrated and lively acidity leaves a juicy finish. Drink now through 2025. 40,000 cases made, 8,000 cases imported.

Jammy berry aromas are forward but inexact. A tight powerful palate is narrow in scope, with peppery red-berry flavors propelled by lively acidity. Finishing notes of oak spice and cocoa are notable through a choppy but bold ending.

A wine that has seen a transformation since the arrival of winemaker Almudena Alberca Martín (ex-Dominio de Atauta), the 2015 Crianza reminds me more of the wines that made them famous in the 1990s. It has the power from the region but the finesse and approachability of a slightly more commercial style along with moderate alcohol, extraction and oak. It has a perfumed, attractive nose and a polished palate. This has to be one of the best modern Crianzas from Viña Mayor. 270,000 bottles produced.