2005 Mas Doix Costers de Vinyes Velles Priorat

98 points from Robert Parker: "The 2005 Costers de Vinas Viejas is aged for 16 months in new French oak. The wine is a blend of 50% Carinena, 48% Garnacha, and 2% Merlot. Purple-colored, it has an other-worldly perfume of pain grille, grilled meat, spice cabinet, espresso, mineral, wild blueberry, and black cherry. This is followed by a powerful, masculine, intense Priorat with gobs of flavor, 8-10 years of cellaring potential, and a very long finish. It will be at its peak from 2018 to 2040." (02/08) 95 points from Wine Spectator: "This beautiful red is expressive, harmonious and intense. Black raspberry and pomegranate flavors are juicy and focused, backed by vanilla, nutmeg, anise and mountain herbs. Elegant on the palate, this drives through the finish with power and length. Drink now through 2020." (12/07) 92 points from Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Inky violet. Vibrant cherry, cassis and violet aromas are deepened by smoky bacon, mocha and toasty oak. Tightly wound, with firmly structured dark berry flavors and no flab. Picks up a spicy quality on the impressively long, juicy finish, which offers an intriguing, rooty cola flavor." (Sept/Oct 07) 91 points Wine & Spirits: "...this wine's future is assured by the clear quality of its fruit. Open in four or five years with venison stew." (02/09)