No 2003 was produced but the 2002 Amancio is an excellent effort for an essentially average vintage. Already quite approachable, it has an enticing balsamic and spice-laden nose, a velvety texture, adequate depth and concentration, and ample savory fruit. Drink it over the next 8-10 years. Bodegas Sierra Cantabria is another outstanding Rioja estate owned and operated by the Eguren family. The highlight of my visit in May, 2010 was a vertical of their two renowned single vineyard wines, Amancio and Finca El Bosque. Not to be overlooked is their complete portfolio of new releases, several of which are superb values. The Amancio cuvee comes from a single vineyard of the same name. There is a severe triage in the vineyard before the grapes reach the sorting table. It spends 24 months in new French oak using a “200% new oak” aging regimen before bottling without fining or filtration. The Finca El Bosque Vineyard is a 4 acre parcel of Tempranillo planted on gravel in 1973. The wine is put through ML in new oak and spends 18 months in new, mostly French oak. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

Rich and plush, in the full international style. This big red shows lavish oak, with chocolate and toast flavors, but has plenty of black currant fruit for balance. Muscular, well-integrated tannins promise long life. Best from 2007 through 2015. 300 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add