The United States received 1,000 cases of the luxury cuvee, the 1996 Torre Muga. A blend of 75% Tempranillo, 15% Mazuelo, and 10% Graciano, this offering spends 22 months in large American oak vats, followed by 16 months in French casks, prior to being bottled without filtration. An amazing effort, it somehow benefits from such a long wood aging regime. The opaque dense purple color is accompanied by scents of black fruits, minerals, scorched earth, cedar, tobacco, and spice box. Full-bodied, with great concentration, as well as a tightly-knit personality, this powerful, muscular wine demands 4-5 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025.Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

The 1996 Torre Muga is a fragrant offering with ample savory fruit. It appears to have fully evolved but is still quite structured. It should be consumed over the near term while the fruit holds. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

Rich yet lively, this full-throttle red fom Spain is bursting with ripe fruit and toasty oak flavors, yet retains a juicy acidity that keeps it balanced and refreshing to drink. It's concentrated yet graceful, with loads of potential. Best from 2001 through 2005.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

Opaque, with aromas of deep, tight fruit and toasty oak, this is a huge and fairly backward wine. However, the mouthfeel is very full—even viscous—and a rich range of cherry, cassis, toast and leather flavors grace the palate. It packs some intense tannins on the back end, making it a serious wine for the cellar, needing 5 to 8 years to come around. It should last for decades.——M.M.(8/1/2000)—— 92