A classic wine with maturity but still a lot to give. Aged 24 months in American oak then 12 more months in French barrels, this GR is leathery and powerful, with firm tannins supporting dry berry fruit flavors accented by copious amounts of tobacco, mint, vanilla and more. Will continue to age and soften; drink now through 2025. ——M.S.(10/1/2010)—— 96

Features higher-toned, redder fruit than the other vintages tasted, but the cranberry and raspberry flavors provide a bright counterpoint to dark coffee and earth on the finish. Still young and vibrant; drink 2005-2010. ——W.E.(4/1/2003)—— 90

The vintage, 1995, was a good one in Ribera del Duero, and this is a solid effort, but it pales in comparison to recent vintages at Vina Sastre. Lean, with a firm backbone that supports simple blackberry fruit, it finishes with a squirt of lemony acidity and some peppery spice. ——W.E.(4/1/2003)—— 87