The 2004 Ardiles is composed of 45% Garnacha, 34% Carinena, 18% Syrah, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. The Merum Priorati estate owns 6 parcels of old vines and 7 parcels of younger vines and this bottling is a blend of old and young vines which was aged for 12 months in a mixture of new and used French oak. Dark ruby-colored, it exhibits a fragrant nose of mineral, spice box, kirsch, raspberry, and spring flower garden. Structured on the palate with excellent depth and concentration, it has layers of spicy fruit and terrific integration of oak, tannin, and acid. The wine has a long, pure finish. Although it can be drunk now, this hedonistically styled wine should evolve for 3-5 years and drink well through 2022.