The 2007 “MONTE DO CASTANHEIRO” is this very fine boutique’s entry level, but it is often charming and this may be the best one I’ve had yet. It is a kitchen sink blend of Trincadeira, Aragonez, Alicante Bouschet, Castelao and Cabernet Sauvignon. Refined and elegant, with a soft, velvety texture, this gains a little complexity with air and shows some structure and some backbone, too. Indeed, it can seem relatively powerful after it wakes up and airs out. It is quite attractive, starting sexy and flavorful, with touches of sweet oak on the finish from its 12 months in French oak, but it ends with some character and intensity. There was a touch of alcohol noticeable after extended aeration, but only a touch. The only real criticism is that after it was open a couple of hours, it finally started to fade, which isn’t a terrible critique in this price range. This particular bottling is not currently available in the USA, but runs around 10 Euros in Portugal, which makes it quite a bargain there. This is not a wine that will drop off a cliff and fall apart suddenly, but it will be best in the short to mid-term, however long it holds. Drink now-2017. Importer: HGC Imports, San Jose, CA; tel: (408) 947-8511