This plump red offers cherry and plum flavors that are ripe and fresh, backed by light leafy and toasty notes. The open texture is juicy and balanced, presenting pretty floral details on the finish. Drink now. 1,667 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Navarra Select to Add

The 2009 Deyo is pure Merlot aged in new, 300-liter French oak barrels. The nose combines oaky aromas of cedar, vanilla and smoke with herbal overtones of spearmint and some lactic notes. The palate is medium-bodied, with balancing acidity and a soft texture. An easy-to-drink Merlot. Drink now. Castillo de Monjardin was created in 1988 and includes an impressive 220 hectares of vineyards, a considerable extension in Navarra. These are modern wines at (mostly) affordable prices. Importer: Winebow Inc., New York, NY; tel. (201) 930-2450; www.winebow.com

The 2006 Merlot Deyo was barrel-fermented and aged in new French oak for 12 months. Dark ruby-colored, the nose reveals spicy red fruits, cedar, spice box, and tobacco. Silky on the palate with good depth and savory, spicy flavors, it has enough structure to evolve for 1-2 year but can be enjoyed now and over the next 6-8 years. Importer: Winebow Inc., New York, NY; www.winebow.com

Starts with distinct, hard aromas of mustard, horseradish and jerky. In the mouth, it’s full, bullish and tannic, with flavors of bacon, wood resin, smoke and stewed blackberry. Very smoky and dark, with hard tannins, and just not as good as past vintages.——M.S.(12/15/2010)—— 85

Red values under $25. Recommended and tasted, but no tasting note given.