The same can be said for the 2007 Reserva Real which displays even greater opulence. At first glance the price looks high, but the playing field is high end Bordeaux putting the cost into a slightly different perspective. One day it might prove interesting to slip a bottle of Reserva Real into a blind tasting of Bordeaux from the 2005 or 2009 vintages. There was a time, perhaps 35-40 years ago when I was just becoming interested in fine wine, that Torres and Spanish wine were synonymous in the USA. There was Vega Sicilia for the cognoscenti, and a few Riojas floating about for those past the beginner stage, but for most of us there was Torres and it usually delivered the goods at a nice price ($3 for Sangre de Toro). Currently Torres towers over all the table wine producers in Penedes making several million cases plus one million cases of brandy. The winery is a tourist destination with a first-class restaurant. For many years the Torres flagship was the Gran Coronas Black Label, subsequently renamed Mas La Plana. It is produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Mas La Plana vineyard and aged for 18 months in new French oak. Importer: Dreyfus Ashby & Co., New York, NY; tel. (212) 818-0770

Subtle and well-integrated, this offers a hint of coffee liqueur accenting notes of sun-dried black cherry, licorice, graphite and black currant. It's chewy and layered, but achieves an elegant style overall. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now through 2020. 10 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Spain / Penedès Select to Add

An outstanding Bordeaux-style blend from Spain. Ripe and lusty aromas of deep berry fruits, vanilla and balsam shavings are excellent. Weighty and saturated on the palate, with elevated cherry, toast, coffee and chocolate flavors. Toes the line between sweet and dry; drink now through 2020. ——M.S.(11/1/2011)—— 93