A stunning value, the 2003 Portal Crianza (a blend of 30% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Grenache, 10% Syrah, and 10% Tempranillo) is a Spanish red to buy by the case. Aged 12 months in American and French oak, and bottled unfiltered, it is a dense, opulent, amazingly concentrated effort with loads of black cherry and cassis fruit intermixed with hints of earth, truffles, smoke, and spice. Displaying beautiful density, balance, and purity, with no hard edges, this lush Crianza can be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years. Importer: Patrick Mata, Ole Imports, New Rochelle, NY; tel. (914) 576-6120