This rich red tastes like blackberry jam on toasted brioche. Thick on the palate, oozing with sweet fruit and oak, with muscular tannins that barely ripple the surface. Yet it remains fresh, with a clean, floral finish. Balanced and lively. Atypical for the region, extraordinary for the vintage. Shows the hallmarks of the international style, but is it authentic Rioja? Does it matter? Drink now through 2015. 1,500 cases made, 300 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add

Ultra sweet and intriguing; you’d have to say, given the vintage, that LAN has done a great job with this prestige wine. It’s loaded with sandalwood, plum and cassis aromas. Best of all, it’s fresh and lively, not a dull heavyweight that trips over itself. As for flavors, look for dark plum, coffee and black currant.——M.S.(3/1/2005)—— 91