The 2001 Reserva is produced from older vines and was aged 18 months in untoasted French oak. Similarly styled, it has a more saturated ruby color and more expressive nose. This medium-bodied, elegantly styled Rioja also possesses surprising concentration of red and black fruit flavors in its well balanced personality and should drink well for another 6-8 years. It is a fine example of the excellent 2001 vintage. Importer: W.J. Deutsch & Sons Ltd., White Plains, N.Y.; tel. (914) 251-9463

Plenty of dusty, spicy aromas run the nose, almost to the exclusion of ripe fruit. But once it opens the wine displays savory flavors as well as some pure dark berry. On the finish, it’s a touch lean and crisp, but overall this is a balanced Rioja reserva with spunk.——M.S.(9/1/2007)—— 87