One of the finest values I have tasted from this appellation is the dense ruby/purple-tinged 2001 Crianza, made from a 60-100 year old vineyard planted with an indigenous varietal, Mencia. Aged 12-14 months in French oak, it comes across like a Spanish version of a high class Cote de Nuits Pinot Noir. The tannin is soft, and the bouquet reveals lovely floral, black cherry, raspberry, smoke, earth, and mineral scents. Medium-bodied, pure, and racy, with a certain tension to its elements, it requires careful introspection to appreciate all the nuances. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565