The youthful 1992 exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, a tight but promising nose of toasty new oak, black-cherries, and cedar, full body, excellent ripeness and extraction, and moderate tannin in the finish. Although approachable, it will not be fully mature for 3-4 years. These impressive wines are all made from a blend of approximately 48% Garnacha, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the remainder small quantities of Syrah, Merlot, and Mazuelo. The wines are aged in small French oak casks for 15-18 months and bottled without filtration. They are opaquely-colored, full-bodied, powerful wines with excellent richness and a personality akin to a top-class Bordeaux, so much so that it would be interesting to insert a Clos de l'Obac in a blind tasting with first or second-growth Bordeaux. Even a superb palate would have trouble ferreting out the Spanish wine. Importer: Jorge Ordonez 39 Constance Road, West Roxbury, MA 02132; telephone (617) 327-1613; telefax (617) 323-0455. I am delighted to note that Jorge Ordonez is one of only a handful of wine importers who exclusively uses reefer (refrigerated) containers for shipment of all his wines.

This meaty red is evolving now, with earthy and smoky accents to the ripe berry and cherry flavors. The tannins are firm but smooth; the finish spicy and a bit hot. Drink now through 1998. 950 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Priorat Select to Add