The 1998 Clos de l'Obac, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Syrah, Merlot, and Carignan, is outstanding. While many Prioratos can be super-rich, thick-textured efforts, Clos de l'Obac represents a more elegant, restrained effort from this highly promising, relatively new appellation. Bottled unfiltered, and made from meager yields of .5 tons of fruit per hectare, this opaque ruby/purple-colored 1998 offers up notes of black raspberries intertwined with strawberry and cherry fruit. As it sits in the glass, mineral and subtle oak aromas emerge. Beautifully-textured and pure, with high tannin, it is a wine of undeniable elegance, finesse, and concentration. It requires 3-4 years of cellaring, and should keep for 15+ years. This is unquestionably the most stylish, restrained, high quality wine emerging from Priorato. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2016. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

This red is rich yet harmonious, with subtle yet well-defined flavors of plums, blackberries, coffee and licorice. It's balanced, clean and long on the finish. Drink now through 2004.??–TM??Region: Spain / Priorat Select to Add