This is the second time I have had an opportunity to try the 2001 prior to

This is the second time I have had an opportunity to try the 2001 prior to its release. The first time was four months ago, and the wine already shows some distinct evolution in that short time. I have had all prior vintages of the wine and I would not be surprised, given where the wine is now poised, if the 2001 turns out to be the best San Román ever.

The 2001 Viña San Román is 100% Tinta de Toro aged 22 months in French and American oak. It is a practically opaque saturated purple. The bouquet is already expressive, featuring rich mix of black cherries, mocha, and spice. From my two tastings, I sense that this is a wine that will be moving markedly beyond mere primary notes to even greater complexity. The palate features extremely rich plum, cherry, kirsch, dark chocolate, and cedary oak spices. Elegantly textured in the mid-palate and showing that trademark Garcia balance, the wine definitely has some significant tannins. But I was surprised at how, from my first tasting, the tannins have already evolved, suggesting a firm but velvety finish is not nearly as far away as I first speculated.