The 2001 7 Vinas Reserva is a blend of 55% Tempranillo 15% Graciano, 15% Garnacha, and the balance Mazuelo, Viura, Malvasia, and white Garnacha. The wine was aged in a variety of oaks for three years before the final blend was aged in a 10,000-liter French oak foudre for 18 months. Garnet-colored, it has a lovely perfume of cigar box, mineral, leather, cherry, and cassis. Elegant on the palate with a silky texture, it has plenty of ripe fruit, impeccable balance, and another 3-4 years of aging potential. Drink this suave effort over the next decade. Importer: Frederick Wildman, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700

Plum, fig cake, spice, mocha and floral notes are balanced and expressive in this rich, seamless red, which is still fresh, with a solid structure. Shows complexity and harmony. Drink now through 2020. 500 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

Deep in color for an ’01, with sweet aromas of vanilla, tobacco, leather and hickory. The palate is endowed with big berry fruit and flavors directed by wood spice, and the tannic level is just right given the wine’s midterm age. With licorice, resin and additional hickory on the finish, 7 Vinas (vineyards) is one of Baron de Ley’s better efforts. ——M.S.(12/15/2008)—— 89