The 2003 “Conde de Vimioso Reserva” (Falua – Sociedade de Vinhos) is a blend of Trincadeira, Aragones, Touriga Nacional & Cabernet Sauvignon. It coats the mouth, and is intense, gripping, and moderately oaky. The tannins, although gripping, should balance out nicely with the fruit. The wine’s flavor profile, however, was a bit eccentric, with hints of menthol and eucalyptus, and streaks of green, bell pepper and some asparagus, on the lingering but not necessarily delectable finish. Structurally, this is a very well crafted wine, in fact, far more impressive than anything else that I have had under this label. I was not wild about the flavor profile. I’m wondering if, with some cellaring, this could come around and show like a better, more intense version of the 2001, but if I had to bet, I would have to bet “no.” Drink 2008-2015.Ramos is one of the best known names in Southern Portugal, making wines under a variety of labels and in several regions. His labels include the familiar Marques de Borba, as well as Vila Santa. His company also owns Falua in Ribatejo. For convenience, all our grouped here, since they are all Ramos-owned operations. Ramos is also the winemaker at his father-in-law’s estate (separately listed), Quinta de Foz de Arouce. Oh, and just a pet peeve – between Borba, Vila Santa and Falua, Ramos seems to delight in making the vintage dates tiny and/or indistinct. Bring a magnifying glass.Importer: Signature Imports, Mansfield, MA; tel. (800) 667-0750; Vinum Importing, Redmond, WA; tel. (206) 621-8843; Aidil Wines & Liquors, a division of Olde World Imports, Inc., Rahway, NJ; tel. (973) 642-0044