Rubbery and earthy on first take, with bacon and stewed berry aromas. The palate is fleshy but also astringent due to fierce tannins, while the flavor profile suggests baked berry, molasses and black pepper. Turns sweeter and more creamy and candied on the finish.——M.S.(10/1/2011)—— 87

A black wine with aromas of graphite, molten earth and black fruit. The palate is a pounder with strong tannins and blazing acidity, and that creates a mouthfeel with grating intensity and roasted black fruit flavors. Lively late, with herbal notes and a lasting tannic bite. At over 15% alcohol, there’s a lot of fire and toughness, so hold for a few more years and hopefully the tannins will soften.——M.S.(8/1/2010)—— 88

Round and generally attractive, with raisiny richness that emerges with airing. The palate is more snappy and acidic than the nose might suggest, with herbal raspberry flavors. That same acidity lifts the finish, and overall the wine is fresh, racy and not that complex. ——M.S.(6/1/2010)—— 87

There’s really no good reason why a reserva from such a fine year like 2001 should be so thin and tart. But in this case, that’s what we’re dealing with. The nose offers earth, tobacco and red fruit aromas, but the palate is all acid and in the end everything seems stripped down and sour. Imported by Dana Importers, Inc.——M.S.(6/1/2007)—— 81

Earth and leather control the nose along with some barnyard. All in all, it’s an old-school wine, one with plum fruit, dryness and plenty of acidity. In the long run it’s not that exciting.——M.S.(6/1/2005)—— 83