Ventozelo, Cister Ribeira Tinto, Douro

Ruby with a garnet rim. Inviting nose of raspberry and cooked meat. Abundant flavor of cherry, raspberry, some spice, and smoky oak. Quite tasty. Dry, very well-balanced, long finish.

Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca. Light cranberry red, so clear that I can see the wood grains of the table through the core of the glass. Slightly reserved nose showing slight black pepper, cranberry and wood. Upon the first few sips, I'm unconvinced as to whether the firm tannins integrate well with the medium to high acidity, oppressing the fresh red fruit flavors. I'm curious what an hour would do for this wine. Overall, fun, one-dimensional …

Deep black cherry nose with hints of chocolate and raw oak flavors. Really a bit standoffish but with hints of vanilla and light spice. Nice in teh mouth with a medium body and med acid, with mild tannins. Dark cherry flavors with rhubarb and cassias. The finish is somewhat short, and overall this is a nice wine with not a lot of personality. Think Pizza Friday night.