The 1998 Seleccion Especial, an unfiltered blend of 70% Tempranillo, 20% Grenache, and the rest Manzuelo and Graciano, is first aged in large wood foudres, then moved into small French and American oak casks where it remains for 24 months. Made in a traditional style, it exhibits a medium ruby color along with scents of lead pencil shavings, earth, strawberries, black cherries, tobacco leaves, and cedar. Richer and more intense than the modest ruby color suggests, with a long finish, it may add additional weight in the bottle. It should drink well for a minimum of 10-12 years. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

Harmonious, with a nice balance of ripe plum and cherry fruit, spicy oak and maturing notes of leather and game. The tannins are round, the acidity bright. Drink now through 2009. 2,000 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add