The 2003 Aragonez (a.k.a. “Tempranillo” in parts of Spain) produced approximately 833 cases, and was raised for nine months in 75% new American oak and 25% new French oak. I did not find most of this winery’s single varietal bottlings to be particularly impressive. This is bright, and rather heady on opening, with some significant tannins for structure on the finish. It shows good cherry flavors, a fragrant nose with perhaps a hint of kirsch, and intensity from the tannins. The finish is a touch candied. The alcohol (14%) seems to show at times. This is probably the tightest and most tannic of the 2003 single varietal wines reviewed here. The oak is there, but not overly intrusive. Despite some merits here, I had trouble warming up to this somewhat jagged and flamboyant wine. Some cellaring may bring it into better balance, but I suspect it is never going to become truly interesting. Drink now-2012. Danish-born Hans Jorgensen is the owner here, with his American wife (of Portuguese ancestry), Carrie. Cortes de Cima has become popular for Syrah in Southern Portugal, producing very modern-styled wines. The road to Syrah was a bit rocky – they started using Syrah, and running afoul of the wine regulations, thus branding one wine, simply, Incognito. The wines tend to be a bit flamboyant. Certain of them may make some tasters think “over-the-top.” They are usually not for the shy. The first release was in 1996.Importer: Tri-Vin Imports, Mt. Vernon, NY; tel. (914) 664-3155