2001 La Vina de Andres

Truly compelling, the 2001 La Vina de Andres Romeo emerges from a single vineyard called La Liende. It boasts an inky/ruby/purple color in addition to a huge nose of graphite, black currants, cherry liqueur, licorice, cedar, and spice box. Powerful, rich, full-bodied, impeccably pure, elegant flavors reveal nicely integrated wood, acidity, and tannin. The finish lasts for nearly a minute. This compelling 2001 should hit its prime in 3-4 years, and last for 15 or more. There is no doubt that Benjamin Romeo is a perfectionist when it comes to winemaking. He worked at Artadi between 1985 and 2000, and now has his own small project where he makes limited quantities of super-expensive, but also high quality, limited production Rioja. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767