Bright, saturated ruby to the rim. Knockout nose combines black raspberry, black cherry, Valrhona chocolate, mocha, roasted nuts and exotic spices. Hugely concentrated and deep, but extremely unevolved today; dense and thick but sound acids and strong mineral character give shape to the dark berry and torrefaction flavors. Supple, thick tannins saturate the entire palate. Still tightly wound, but very long on the aftertaste. A worthy successor to the extraordinary '96 bottling.

This offering is produced just outside the appellation of Ribera del Duero from 100% Tempranillo, barrel-fermented, and bottled with minimal clarification. The huge, massive, full-bodied 1998 Terreus (a single vineyard effort) demands 4-5 years of cellaring. Packed with concentrated blackberry and cassis fruit interspersed with notes of licorice, new wood, and melted asphalt, this potent effort possesses high tannin and extract as well as abundant glycerin. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020. If everything comes together over the next 4-5 years, look for my rating to go even higher. Importer: A Christopher Cannan Selection, various American importers including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300 and Diamond Wine Merchants, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 567-9897