The 2001 Old Vines Gran Reserva is 100% Tempranillo sourced from 30+ year old vines and aged in American, French, and Hungarian oak for 24 months. Ruby red in color, the nose reveals notes of pepper, balsamic, leather, tobacco, and black cherry fruit. Medium-bodied and elegantly styled, the wine is substantial on the palate with ripe flavors, excellent depth, and a pure finish. Drink this nicely rendered wine over the next 5-6 years. Importer: Quintessential Wines, Napa, CA; www.quintessentialwines.com

Light and fading, with simple red fruit and spice flavors. 1,800 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Spain / Valdepe?as Select to Add

Plenty of color and weight give this wine credibility, but on the nose as well as the palate there’s candy, hints of wet dog fur and some burnt funk. It’s a strange wine, reflective of Valdepenas, but as it opens it gains a comfort zone that is not disappointing. A little scattered and unusual, but not bad.——M.S.(6/1/2008)—— 84