Superb, and an excellent value is the 1996 Rioja Reserva. It spends 24 months in French and American oak prior to being bottled without filtration. The color is a dense plum/purple. The wine displays an Haut-Brion-like note of asphalt, roasted earth, lead pencil, smoke, and black cherry jam. Medium to full-bodied and complex, with moderate tannin, adequate acidity, and a spicy, classy, rich finish, it requires 2-3 more years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2017. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767

Ripe and generous. Roasted plum and toasty flavors are bold yet balanced in this round red. Tannins are muscular but well integrated. A bit rustic, but makes an impression. Drink now through 2004. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add