I revisited the 2004 Prado Enea Gran Reserva, as they hold small quantities of older vintages that are sold mostly to restaurants. I was really surprised by the slow development of this vintage in bottle, which is still young and with an incredible aging potential. The aromas are only starting to develop some tertiary characteristics while still showing a fruit side, and the spices are slowly increasing but the pace is really slow. The palate has concentration and depth, clean and focused flavors and great length, with outstanding overall balance and harmony. I think this is a more classical vintage than the 2005 I ended up tasting next to it, which can be a little more modern. At that time, they were producing some 150,000 bottles of Prado Enea.

This fleshy red shows cherry, kirsch, orange peel and tobacco flavors over chewy tannins. Maturing, but still quite fresh, this stays lively through the spicy finish. Drink now through 2014. 1,200 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add