The 2006 RESERVA is 70% a field blend from at least 20+ year old vines (some exceed 80 years in age); plus 27% Touriga Nacional (15+ year old vines) with a dollop of Sousao (3%). It is very pleasant, but in many respects reminds me more of the regular Tinto than what the Reserva normally is, a familiar refrain in 2006 and a consequence of what Mother Nature wrought this year. In this particular year, it is a bit fuller in body than the ’06 Tinto, elegant and tasty, focused and bright. It has modest structure and an average finish at best. It should be approachable early. Drink now-2015. There were approximately 1,666 cases produced. Importer: Quintessential, Napa, CA; tel. (914) 725-3479.

From old vines and with 17 months’ wood aging, this is a smoothly ripe wine, the structure softened out, giving dusty tannins, great ripe black plum fruits and balancing acidity. It could be drunk now, but for the super-ripe fruit to meld even better, give it a year.——R.V.(4/1/2009)—— 90