Without doubt, one of the leading modern Sinqle Quinta producers (Portuguese producer of the year in 2003). Spectacular site! Winemaking directed by Aussie Dominic Morris. Lagares, thankfully, are retained, augmented by the modern twist of temperature control.

Dark blackberry nose with fine (French?) oak characters. The palate is warm medium-full bodied with the oak becoming more prevalent as the palate builds. Good firm tannin before a long drying finish. Very young nose, well be excellent or better when fully mature. 88/100 Very Good Murray Almond, StarPanel

Finally, a new red from one of the Douro Boys: Miguel Roquette, owner of Quinta do Crasto. I guess in my mind, I was hoping for the price of the regular Crasto Douro red to come down, but rather, we have a new wine, Flor de Crasto 2004, that was built for early drinking. The tannins are softer, the fruit a bit more forward, but it's still the Douro. The nose is an impressive sort of fragrance you might get if you cross a sangiovese with a malbec. On the palate it's a dusty, earthy, medium-bodied red wine full of vim and vigour, not to mention refreshing acidity. Enjoy all winter with grilled meats, stews or wherever the word rustic is used. Good value. Anthony Gismondi; www.gismondionwine.com