By no means is this an easy wine to like or understand. It begins with murky, earthy aromas and then unfolds to deliver marzipan and sweet berry fruit. Massive is an understatement, as the wine’s tannic grab and density are over the top. There aren’t many good high-priced Cabs from Spain; take this as a good explanation why not. Imported by Kobrand. ——M.S.(10/1/2009)—— 86

This dense, polished red offers ripe plum, chocolate and coffee flavors. Rich and a bit soft, with a sweet chocolate finish, good concentration and round, well-integrated tannins. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2004. 150 cases made.??–TM??Region: Spain / Vi?o de Mesa de Castilla y León Select to Add

The 1996 Valdebelon is made from a parcel of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon planted in the estate's highest vineyard (at an altitude of over 2,400 feet). With yields of under 22 hectoliters per hectare, this wine is reminiscent of an exotic, hypothetical blend of Mouton-Rothschild and Latour. The color is opaque purple, and the nose offers up aromas of black currants, lead pencil, minerals, walnuts, and creme de cassis. Structured, dense, and full-bodied, with an exotic, flamboyant personality, this superb, concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon is ostentatious at present, but will undoubtedly shut down after several years in the bottle, unfolding slowly over the next two decades.Congratulations are in order for this impressive new winery that is already turning out wines of exceptional quality.Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767