Powerful and expressive. This massive red delivers ripe flavors of blueberry, plum and prune, backed by plenty of toasty oak and framed by muscular tannins, finishing with spices, tobacco and heat. International style, but with a sauvage note that keeps it distinctive. Best after 2007. 800 cases made, 100 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

With color akin to crude oil with a violet tint, this is one tank of a wine. The nose is massively roasted, with espresso, bacon fat and blackberry melding in monster fashion. In the mouth, there’s more licorice, pepper and syrup than bounce, which makes it somewhat of a one-trick pony. Heady for sure, but lacking that extra nuance or two that the great ones have.——M.S.(3/1/2005)—— 90