2001 Rotllan Torra Amadis

(based on 100-year-old garnacha and carinena, with some cabernet sauvignon, syrah and merlot) Deep red. Smoky, nutty oak currently dominates on the nose. Then dense but juicy, with superripe flavors of dried fruits, blackberry, and minerals. Like a drier-styled port: slightly pruney but with a dry, nutty edge. Finishes with slightly dry but fine tannins and good length. I'd like to have seen a bit more sweetness.

Tasted just before it was bottled, there will be 4,800 bottles of the 2001 Amadis (a blend of 45% Grenache and 20% Carignan from 90-100 year old vines, and the rest younger vine Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot). A sensational bouquet of blackberry liqueur, acacia flowers, crushed stones, and sweet oak emerges from a wine of great purity, layers of flavor, an opulent texture, and a sweet finish. This beauty should drink well young yet age effortlessly for 10-15 years. Jordi Rotllan Torra was one of the pioneers of Priorat having founded this small estate in 1984, long before this now fashionable wine region became world renowned. Importer: Andre Tamars, De Maison Selections, Inc., Chapel Hill, NC; tel. (919) 933-4245

Tasted just before it was bottled, there will be 4,800 bottles of the 2001 Amadis (a blend of 45% Grenache and 20% Carignan from 90-100 year old vines, and the rest younger vine Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot). A sensational bouquet of blackberry liqueur, acacia flowers, crushed stones, and sweet oak emerges from a wine of great purity, layers of flavor, an opulent texture, and a sweet finish. This beauty should drink well young yet age effortlessly for 10-15 years. Apr 2004, www.robertparker.com