1996 Rivola

Made from 60% Tempranillo and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon that is aged for 3 months in new French and American oak casks, it tastes like a $30 bottle of red wine. A knock-out nose of smoke, charcoal, and cassis is intense and pure. The wine hits the palate with a blast of dense, creamy-textured, rich, black currant, and cherry fruit. Medium to full-bodied, with an opulent texture, and plenty of sweet, spicy pain grille notes, this is a sexy, lush, gorgeously made wine. Already drinking splendidly well, it possesses the necessary stuffing to last for 5-7 years. Think of it as a blend of a first-class Pomerol and Vega Sicilia Unico. Don't miss this one! One of the best values I have discovered this year, Abadia Retuerta's debut vintage (7,000 cases) of 1996 Rivola is produced from a huge estate situated just outside the appellation of Ribera del Duero. In fact, the property is only 15 kilometers (just under 10 miles) from Vega Sicilia. Interestingly, the famous French oenologist, Pascal Delbeck, was a consultant for the construction of the multi-million dollar showcase winery. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (617) 461-5767