The 2006 Abadal Seleccio is composed of 40% Cabernet Franc, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Syrah aged for 14 months in French oak. A saturated purple color, it reveals an already complex nose of sandalwood, scorched earth, espresso, incense, spice box, black cherry, and black currant. In the mouth this buxom effort is dense, succulent, and long. It merits 4-5 years of additional cellaring and will present a drinking window extending from 2014 to 2026. Importer: Aurelio Cabestrero, Grapes of Spain, Lorton, VA; www.grapesofspain.com

The 2005 Seleccio is a blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Syrah aged for 14 months in French oak. A glass-coating opaque purple color, it reveals a complex bouquet of toasty oak, pencil lead, black currant, blueberry, and plum. The most structured of the Abadal wines, it demands 4-6 years of cellaring. It has the balance to develop gracefully and will offer prime drinking from 2014 to 2027. The Abadal wines are produced by Masies D’Avinyo. Importer: Aurelio Cabastrero, Grapes of Spain, Lorton, VA; tel. (571) 642-0343