Hey, sorry. I wasn't trying to advertise.. just an easy way to not have to type all my opinions out again.. Can't send wines to the US anyway.

I have really enjoyed the following:
marques de Arienzo (1982) 12 Euros...very special as 1982 was the "excelente" year of the 80s in la Rioja..
Otherwise
1994,1995....paternina banda roja
hope this helps
James

I agree with the first answer. Vega Sicilia (Ribera del Duero region), if you want to impress and you have the Gold Card. Otherwise, I would go with a Muga. Reserva/Grand Reserva. 1994 and 1995 were the last Excellent years in the Rioja region, if I´m not mistaken. (1999 and 1996 for R del D.)