The 2001 Salia (a 10,000 bottle blend of 60% Syrah and 40% Grenache) spent 11 months in used barriques. Representing Sandoval's introductory level, it is an excellent value. Impeccably made, it exhibits an exotic floral, sweet black currant, blackberry, vanilla, and licorice-scented bouquet. Medium-bodied, with soft tannin, an excellent texture, and a fine finish, it should drink well for 3-4 years. This is the debut release from the respected Spanish writer and bon vivant Victor de la Serna. This offering emerges from young Syrah vineyards planted with stock grown at the Chateauneuf du Pape nursery of Chateau Beaucastel. This operation has been extremely well thought out, and is aimed at producing the highest quality wine possible. This impressive 2001 effort was produced from dense plantations of 3,030 vines per hectare, from yields of 19 hectoliters per hectare (crop-thinning, leaf-pulling, etc. were employed). Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767