The 2007 FERNAO PIRES (FALCOARIA) is barrel fermented. Oak is always a philosophical question for some, but ignoring philosophy, tasting purer versions of this grape from Casal Branco, a winery that makes very fine and very affordable wines from this grape, is an interesting contrast. This is a reasonably nice performance handling the wood, with grip on the finish, perhaps a touch of tannin, and an effort to be flavor-neutral in terms of wood. The acidity shines through. This certainly has many merits, philosophical objections aside. Drink now-2011. There were 12,000 cases produced. Importer: For all wines except Quartilho and Capoeira brands: Tri-Vin Imports, Mt. Vernon, N.Y.; tel: (914) 664-3155; for Quartilho and Capoeira wines only: Vino Cava, LLC, Wayne, PA; tel: (610) 688-8415