The red wines begin with the 2001 Gran Caus Negre, a blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 40% Merlot, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 12 months in a mix of new and used French oak. Garnet-colored with a brick rim, it shows a bit of age in its appearance. It is very Bordeaux-like aromatically with some tertiary notes from extended bottle age as well as cinnamon, clove, earth notes, and assorted red fruits. This leads to a suave wine with silky fruit, light tannin, and excellent balance. Allow 2-3 years of additional cellaring and drink it from 2011 to 2021. Can Rafols dels Caus is located in the Garraf Massif which forms part of the Catalan coastal mountain range making this a Mediterranean-influenced terroir. The estate covers 450 hectares and is owned and run by the brilliant Carlos Esteva. These are wines that reflect the unique perspective of Carlos Esteva and are worth a search of the marketplace. Importer: Steve Miles Selections, Denver, CO; tel. (303) 495-3811