From the same team that brings you the Central Coast’s superb Sea Smoke Pinot Noirs comes Melis, a splendid example of what can be achieved in Priorat. The 2004 Melis, from an outstanding vintage, is a blend of 63% Grenache, 16% Carignan, 14% Syrah, and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon. It was aged for 15 months in several sizes of 100% new Burgundian oak before being bottled without fining or filtration. Purple-colored, it exhibits sweet aromas of vanilla spice, toast, mineral, wild blueberry and blackberry. Full-bodied (a nicely concealed 15.5% alcohol) with a velvety palate-feel, layers of opulent black fruit flavors, ripe tannins, and a long, pure finish, this large-scaled wine can be enjoyed now and over the next 15-20 years. Bravo! Importer: Victor Gallegos, Lompoc, CA; victor@melispriorat.com

Powerful is almost an understatement in describing this big boy. The nose starts out fiery and rough before settling to intense. It’s all guns blazing on the palate, where tight, racy raspberry fruit holds court. With intense oak and a molten core generating 15.5% alcohol you may want to tread carefully. The ride is not for the weak. Garnacha with Carignan, Syrah and Cab Sauvignon.——M.S.(8/1/2007)—— 92