The Pecina Crianza spent 2.5 years in oak and then another three in bottle before release, as believes in selling wines in their prime. The color is fading on the rim just a little, but no more than to be expected after 9 years. The nose is complex and very spicy, with hints of clove, coffee, baking spices, dried fruits and the telltale leather of Rioja. On the palate it is expressive and complex, with hints of herbs, smoke, red fruit and more of the spices on a silky frame with dusty but chewy tannins. The finish is long, and has hints of green olives, usually the first sign that a wine is approaching the crest of the hill, but at this point it adds depth. While this wine won't please everyone with its old world style, you can't say it is boring.