This excellent 2004 Arrocal is a deep ruby/purple-tinged effort boasting a sweet nose of plums, black cherries, and currants, a medium to full-bodied, silky smooth style, and a hint of barrique. Lusciously fruity, opulent, and hedonistically as well as intellectually satisfying, this fruit-driven, modern-styled Spanish red should be consumed over the next 1-2 years. Importer: Aurelio Cabestrero, Grapes of Spain, Lorton, VA; tel. (703) 249-8028

Seductive like a trap, meaning the nose is lush and full of bacon, cola and blackberry, yet the palate is tannic and shows some serious teeth. The fruit is bold and ripe, and the structure dictates that it be drunk with hearty foods like steak, lamb or burgers.——M.S.(6/1/2007)—— 87