If there’s any such thing as the perfect Spanish red, Pesus is it. A blend of 80% Tempranillo with other grapes including Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine sees 200% new oak, resulting in a thick, dark, tannic beauty that bubbles over with toast, cola, mint, chocolate and spice aromas. The mouth is sheer heaven; a mile deep in terms of berry flavor and more, but faultless and smooth. Shows outstanding structure and power, and should age well for 15–20 years. Hails from two 100-year-old vineyards and some baby vines with but 25 years of age. Crazy expensive but only 150 cases were made; drink 2013–2030. ——M.S.(10/1/2010)—— 100

Old-vine Tempranillo is cut by about 15% younger-vine Cabernet and Merlot in this rich, chewy red. It’s smokier and more herbal than its all-Tempranillo stablemate, the Regina Vides, yet still boasts enormous blackberry and black cherry fruit cushioned by plush tannins. ——W.E.(4/1/2003)—— 94