This project, from a large estate in Ribera del Duero, has the gifted Danish winemaker, Peter Sisseck (of Pingus fame), as the winemaker. Produced from extremely low yields (15-20 hectoliters per hectare), this offering is a blend of Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The 1996 Crianza was slightly outshown by the 1995 cuvees. The 1996 is unquestionably an outstanding wine. It possesses 14.5% alcohol, and plenty of guts and richness. The color is a saturated plum/purple. The wine reveals copious quantities of sweet toasty new oak intermixed with nearly overripe scents of prunes, blackberries, and cassis. Full-bodied and spicy, with a lush texture and low acidity, this generous wine can be drunk now and over the next decade. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, New York, NY; tel. (212) 924-4949