Sadly, there are only 150 cases of the fairly-priced 2000 Embruix for the U.S.A. A blend of 50% Grenache, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Merlot, Syrah, and Carignan, this estate-bottled 2000 exhibits an opaque ruby/purple color, and a sweet nose of blackberries, strawberries, and cherries intermixed with this region's tell-tale notes of minerals and crushed stones. Medium to full-bodied, with moderate tannin as well as an elegant, well-delineated personality, this impressive offering will be at its finest between 2005-2014. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

Inky-dark and dense, with exemplary cherry and berry fruit along with tons of earth, spice and terroir. At 15% it’s big, and you get more than ample blackberry and cherry fruit to chew on. The finish, meanwhile, is dark with espresso and leftover fruit. Big and boisterous, but right on the money. ——M.S.(3/1/2004)—— 94