The 2001 Abadal Reserva is a blend of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Syrah that spent 14 months in used French and American oak. This purple-colored wine coats the glass with glycerin. It offers up an impressive bouquet of vanilla, spice box, pencil lead, and black currants which have benefitted from the extra bottle age. It is the most densely packed to this point, with layers of black fruit flavors, a supple texture, and surprising elegance. It has excellent balance and a long, fruity finish. Drink it over the next 4-6 years. Importer: Aurelio Cabestrero, Grapes of Spain, Lorton, VA; tel. 571.642.0343 fax 571.642.0505

For a few years running we've been singing the praises of Abadal, a label from Catalonia that has been producing hit upon hit. This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah from the excellent 2001 vintage is in super form; the wine has a ripe, integrated nose of cocoa, dark fruit and chocolate, while the palate is bold and loaded with vivacious cherry and blackberry flavors. From front to center to back, this wine has it all going in the right direction. Good now through 2012.——M.S.(4/1/2008)—— 92