Matsu El Picaro 2010 Toro (Spain)

Nose: Heavy, but not strong. Dense.

Taste: Red berries, a bit sweet.

Finish: Almost no finish to speak of.

What we say: S - "It reminds me of the mulled berry punch. It's a punch of berries that doesn't do much." V - "The nose is definitely something more than wine, but I can't figure out what it is." "It's a one-hit wonder."

What they say: Full-bodied and powerful.

Rating: 6

Berberana Reserva 2006 (Spain)

Nose: Light and pleasant.  Berryish.

Taste: Sweet, you can taste berries. Smooth and drinkable.

Finish: Disappears very quickly, very light.

What we say: S - "It's quite gulpable.  The finish disappears like it's water." V - "This is the party wine that you bring that won't disappoint."

What they say: Red fruits, spices on the nose. Well structured with a long finish.

Rating: 6.5 (V - 6; S - 7)

Lagunilla Reserva 2006 Rioja (Spain)

Nose:  Quite nice, definitely woody, possibly cherry

Taste:  Drier than expected.  Unsweetened berries.  Almost a bit sour, as if someone put lemon in it.

Finish:  Dies pretty quickly.  Finish not really distinct from palate - it just blends in.

What they say:  Cherry red in colour with tasty aromas.  Smooth and round with wild fresh fruit on the palate, soft tannins and notes of oak.

What we say:  S - "Tastes like berries and woods"

Rating:  5