With its enticing perfumes, sweet plum and damson fruit flavors, this is initially a seductive wine. But at the same time, the vivid acidity and the strong tannic element suggest good aging potential.——R.V.(12/15/2009)—— 93

Firm tannin and an astringent finish kept this 2000 from meriting an outstanding score, and from qualifying as a sleeper of the vintage. The color is a deep opaque ruby/purple. The wine offers attractive sweet floral and licorice-infused blackberry fruit, medium to full body, outstanding purity as well as mid-palate, but a tough-textured finish with alcohol poking through. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2019.Importer: Evaton, Inc., Stamford, CT; tel. (203) 968-8220

The dark ruby-colored 1994 vintage port with purple hues is made in a lighter, more advanced and early to mature style. Slightly sweet, with well-integrated brandy showing in the nose, it is a full-bodied, rich, and impressive port, but not one of the stars of the vintage. It will require 10-20 years of cellaring. Importer: Broadbent Selections, San Francisco, CA; tel. (510) 432-8870