Viña Ecoyen Navarra Reserva 2002 (Spain)

Nose:  Sweet - definitely cherry.  With some type of spice, maybe cinnamon or nutmeg?

Taste:  Quite smooth, with Christmas spices - nutmeg or cloves?

Finish:  A little bit of tannins on the finish, maybe a little peppery?

What we say:  V - 'The nose almost reminds me of cherry pie.  It's quite nice.'  S - I like it, particularly the Christmassy bit.'  V - 'There's just the right amount of sweetness'

What they say:  Red cherry and black fruits mellowed by creamy vanilla.

Rating:  7

Can Rafols dels Caus Gran Caus 2003 (Spain)

Nose:  Quite strong and sharp, maybe moss, woody, or damp wood?

Taste:  Tangy cherry at the beginning - pretty full flavoured.

Finish:  Lingering, slightly sweet, with cherry

What we say:  S - "Smells like nothing I've ever smelled before." "Maybe sewer, but not in a bad way."  "When I smell deeply it's like greasy chicken."

What they say:  Nuttin'

Rating:  6.5 (V - 7; S - 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)