The 2005 Especial Reserva was sourced from a single vineyard with vines over 60 years of age. It spent 24 months in French oak. Deep purple-colored, it sports an alluring bouquet of sandalwood, incense, Asian spices, violets, black cherry, and blackberry compote. Structured on the palate with dense, savory, ripe fruit, it manages to remain elegant in combination with its power. Allow 2-3 years of additional cellaring and drink it from 2013 to 2025. Importer: HAB North America,; www.habarcelo.es

Mineral, earthy notes and sweet vanilla oak. Intense, rich and spicy with notes of red cherries and long, juicy finish. Beautiful tannins.

The 2004 Especial Reserva is 100% Tempranillo which spent 12 months in new French oak followed by 12 months in seasoned French oak. Dark ruby/purple-colored, it offers a nicely perfumed nose of wood smoke, pencil lead, espresso, and blackberry. Elegantly-styled with a supple texture and good depth of flavor, this tasty Rioja will continue to add complexity with 3-4 more years of cellaring. Drink it from 2012 to 2025. Importer: HAB North America; tel. (312) 208-0488

Violets and toasty oak. Bright, modern fruit. Lacks integration and intensity; light bodied, red fruited. Long.