The no longer available 2001 Grans Muralles demonstrates the aging potential of this wine. Still purple in color and showing relatively little color development compared to the two younger wines, on the palate it is beginning to develop tertiary characteristics and significant complexity. How far it might ultimately evolve is difficult to say because the first vintage of this wine was 1998. It is not going out too far on a limb to say that Grans Muralles is the greatest wine of the Conca de Barbara DO. Grans Muralles is a single vineyard originally planted in the Middle Ages to the ancient Catalan grape varieties, Monastrell, Garnacha Tinta, Garro, Samso, and Mazuelo. The wine is aged for 18 months in new French oak. Importer: Dreyfus Ashby & Co., New York, NY; tel. (212) 818-0770

Concentrated and still youthful, this elegant red shows focus and finesse. Black cherry, blackberry, chocolate and licorice flavors are framed by well-integrated tannins and finish with spice and mineral accents. Monastrell, Garnacha and others. Drink now through 2015. 1,200 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Conca de Barberà Select to Add

Big in every way, with tons of new oak, popcorn and coffee sitting on top of dark-fruit aromas. Modern despite its incorporation of several indigenous grapes, this blend delivers a blast of roasted black cherry and plum flavors in front of a resiny finish that’s dripping with menthol and molasses. Unique if a touch syrupy; it’s clearly shooting for the modern style.——M.S.(4/1/2008)—— 91