The 2007 RESERVA is a blend of Touriga Nacional (40%), Tinta Roriz (40%) and Touriga Franca (20%) aged in French oak for 9 months. Rather gamey and elegant in the mid-palate, it grips the palate and lingers on the finish. As this sat in the glass, it expanded, showing better depth, and more intensity in terms of both tannin and fruit. This is a wine that should hold well in the cellar. If you don’t like the gamey notes, it may not be for you. My only quibble was a little harshness on the finish. It will be interesting to see how some cellaring affects this wine. This winery keeps making strides, and given the pricing, it is a very fine value. Drink 2010-2020. This estate, with the pretty labels, is increasingly a player in the Douro. In the difficult 2006 vintage, the winery turned out pretty respectable performances. The 2007s look very successful and at the lower end are very good values.Importer: M Imports, Coppell, TX; tel: (214) 505-0616.

A big-hearted wine, with full-bodied black fruits, sweet tannins and a delicious balance between structure and opulence. There is just enough restraint here, but not much, and the wine does want to burst out of the glass.——R.V.(12/15/2009)—— 91