The flagship offering in this portfolio, the 2001 Rioja Tinto Propiedad spent 12 months in 100% new French oak casks prior to being bottled without fining or filtration. A steal at $26, it is a blend of 40% Grenache, 45% Tempranillo, and the rest Graciano and Mazuelo, made from yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare. This stylish, elegant, medium-bodied, deep ruby/purple-colored Rioja offers up notes of graphite, black currants, cherries, and tobacco leaves. The new oak component is well-concealed beneath the abundant fruit and terroir characteristics. Pretty as well as flavorful, it does an admirable job of marrying finesse and elegance with flavor authority. Drink it over the next 8-10 years. Importer: The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484

Alvaro Palacios is indeed a great winemaker, as is evidenced by this blend of Garnacha, Tempranillo, Graciano and Mazuelo. Aromas of bright cherry signify power and structure, yet it’s easy as sin to drink. Shows model integration, bursting berry flavors and ripe tannins. Tasted several times during the past year but not rated until now; this wine just keeps getting better. ——M.S.(6/1/2005)—— 92