This 2008 LBV from Ramos Pinto has a very pure nose of dark cherries, bilberry and cassis that disguises its spirit extremely well. The palate is medium-bodied with a plush, silky smooth entry that is very focused, while the second half sees dark chocolate notes infusing the black fruit profile that is perhaps just a little “obvious.” Still, this is a pleasant, commercially-minded, approachable LBV for drinking over the next decade. Tasted May 2013.