Proprietor Rene Barbier is a pioneer in the potentially super-star Tarrigona region of Priorato. The 1994 is an old vine Grenache-dominated wine (about 40%), with approximately 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Syrah, and the rest Pinot Noir and Merlot. Yields were frightfully low. While backward and tannic, the wine is dense, powerful, and rich, with an opaque black/plum color, and aggressive levels of toasty new oak. If the oak was not so lavish, the wine might merit an even higher rating, because it is super-extracted and pure, with remarkable balance for its massive size and weight. The 1994 requires 5-6 years of cellaring; it should age for 25 years or more. Importer: A Christopher Cannan Selection, Europvin USA, Watertown, MA; tel. (617) 924-7620

This dark, rich red is packed with ripe, luscious flavors of plums and blackberries, with massive yet perfectly integrated tannins and accents of chocolate and coffee. The fruit is so sweet that you'll be tempted to drink it now, but the wine will be better after cellaring. Best after 2000. 2,800 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Priorat Select to Add