The 1994 Rioja Grandes Anadas Reserva Especial (made from a single Tempranillo vineyard planted 80-100 years ago) was aged for 40 months in 100% new French oak casks. Approximately 100 six-bottle cases were imported to the United States. This intellectually and hedonistically satisfying wine is one of the most compelling and prodigious Riojas I have ever tasted. It possesses amazing richness, and a fabulous smoky, black fruit-scented nose that soars from the glass. Full-bodied, with extraordinary richness, layers of fruit, beautifully integrated acidity, tannin, and wood, and a whoppingly long 45+ second finish, this wine must be tasted to be believed. It is also one of the most expensive Riojas I have ever tasted, but this wine has a 20-year upside potential. It is a tour de force in winemaking. Kudos to Artadi! Anticipated maturity: 2000-2020.This estate qualifies as a fabulous discovery. A relatively new enterprise dedicated to producing wines at the top of the qualitative hierarchy, Artadi has turned out four spectacular Riojas. Founded in 1989, this winery's vineyards are all planted at cool, high altitude (around 1500 feet) terroirs. These are brilliant wines that merit considerable attention.Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, New York, NY; tel. (212) 924-4949