The 2001 Reserva (Fronteira – Quinta da Cova da Barca) is a blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Touriga Franca. The label does not indicate Quinta da Cova da Barca, but the winery assures me that this is where this wine is from, and that it “is the last vineyard in the River Douro.” It is attractive, beautifully focused, elegant, and impeccably balanced. Its sweet fruit makes it delicious. It has soft edges and sensual texture, with tannins lurking underneath. With air, the wine first becomes much more intense, then thins out a bit too quickly. It is a good value, but considering how quickly it thinned and became more ordinary, I did restrain my initial impulse to give it a much higher score. There is nothing profound here, but it makes a very nice impression in the short term. Drink now-2010. Founded in 1999 and formally registered as “Sociedade Agricola da Quinta do Romeira de Cima,” this company trades under the umbrella name Companhia das Quintas (literally, “the Estates Company”), signifying its acquisition and ownership of six Quintas in various regions, the latest acquisition being Quinta de Pancas. As the formal name implies, they are headquartered at Quinta do Romeira, an estate with roots going back to the early 17th century.Importer for Cado: Signature Imports, Mansfield, MA; tel: (800) 667-0750. Importer for Prova Regia and Morgado Sta. Catherina: Aidil Wines & Liquors, a division of Olde World Imports, Inc., Rahway, NJ.; tel. (973) 642-0044. Importer for all other wines: Admiral Wine Imports, Irvington, NJ; tel. (973) 857-2100