The 2005 Muga Reserva Seleccion Especial is the identical cepage but sourced from older vineyards and aged longer in barrel. A glass-coating opaque purple color, it offers up an alluring perfume of sandalwood, pencil lead, incense, espresso, black cherry, and blackberry. Dense, rich, structured, and savory, on the palate spice notes and terroir aromas make an appearance leading to a pure, 45-second finish. It will offer a drinking window extending from 2015 to 2035. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

Balanced and elegant, this lovely red exhibits fresh black fruit flavors that are supported by ripe tannins and lively acidity, with notes of mineral, licorice and tar adding complexity. This isn't a blockbuster, but it's complete. Drink now through 2015. 2,000 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

Dense, brooding, savoury notes. Masses of promise. Powerful, ripe, plummy. Good balance and elegance. Impressive.

Smells slightly exotic and different from the norm; the nose offers baked black-fruit scents, lemon peel, rubber and Eastern spices. Pure and driving on the palate, with good acidity and woodsy, complex flavors of blackberry, coffee and licorice. Snappy and pure on the finish; drink from 2011 through 2016. ——M.S.(2/1/2011)—— 92