The 2005 Vinas de Gain is produced from 100% Tempranillo with vines ranging from 40-60 years of age. The wine is aged for 12-14 months in French oak, 40% new. 2005 is a very fine vintage throughout Rioja and this entry-level wine from the superstar Bodegas Artadi is an awesome value as well as mind-boggling in quality. Purple/black in color, it offers up a killer perfume that is super-sexy. Among its elements are truffles, pencil lead, vanilla, cherry, and black raspberry jam. Full-bodied, the wine is opulent yet elegant, concentrated, and superbly balanced. There is enough structure to ensure 6-8 years of positive evolution and it should drink well through 2032. Kudos to Bodegas Artadi for this tour de force! (JM)