($20, Kobrand): Located just outside of Spain’s prestigious Ribera del Duero region, Abadia Retuerta has been producing stylish, well-price wines since 1996 when the pharmaceutical company Novartis finally–a decade after its purchase–completed replanting the vineyards and finished their a state-of-the-art gravity flow winery.  Although they produce many single vineyard wines, the Selección Especial is a blend from the entire estate and representative of their style.  A blend of Tempranillo (75%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%), and Merlot, it delivers ripe but not over-the-top black fruit, harmonized with just the right amount of toasty oak.  Subtle chocolate-like elements add to its complexity.  Glossy texture makes it even more charming and adds to its immediate appeal. 90 Michael Apstein Sep 1, 2009