The 2003 Conde de Superunda is composed of 60% Tempranillo, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Monastrell, and 3% Carmenere. There is very little Tempranillo and Monastrell planted in Chile but this wine makes a strong argument for further experimentation. It is opaque purple-colored with a brooding nose of pain grille, scorched earth, black cherry, and black raspberry. The wine is tight and backward on the palate needing 8-10 years to strut its best stuff. There are full, ripe tannins which are nicely integrated with the oak and the finish is long and pure. Only patient collectors need apply.Importer: Dreyfus Ashby & Co., Santa Cruz, CA; tel. (831) 440-9900

Saturated and creamy, but a little flat, dense and short on fruit. Even with its age, the palate is fairly closed and quiet, with hard tannins and modest bounce. Flavors of berry and black plum carry an herbal side note, and the finish is more tannic than smooth. Tempranillo with Cabernet Sauvignon, Monastrell and Carignan.——M.S.(12/31/2009)—— 88