The 2006 ENTRE II SANTOS is a value wine, an unusual blend of Baga, Pinot Noir and Castelao Nacional. The name means “between two saints,” referring to the vineyards being between the towns of Saint Lourenco and Saint Mateus. 2006 was not a good Baga year, says Campolargo, but the Pinot Noir makes some impact on the nose and flavors. The acidity makes the wine rather sharp at times, the Baga rearing its head. The mid-palate is modest but nicely textured. This can be kind of fun if you like its style, and it provides some value. It will always be better on the younger side. Drink now-2010. Campolargo is an attractive estate in Bairrada which often focuses more on international grapes and other Portuguese varieties rather than the traditional Baga, making a Bordeaux blend (Calda Bordaleza) and even a Pinot Noir. They are making pretty good use of those international varieties, producing some interesting wines containing Cabernet Sauvignon in particular. Manuel Campolargo, the owner, presents a large array of wines at different price points, often in big, distinctive bottles with long names. I wasn’t so sure how I felt about this estate from early tastings, but I think they have improved and are going to improve even more. There is always a lot of personality evident here, both in terms of whimsy and wine.Importer: Tri-Vin Imports, Mt. Vernon, NY; tel. (914) 664-3155

An exotic blend including Pinot Noir and Merlot along with Portuguese varieties, taking its name from two local villages with saints’ names. It has acidity and an awkward bitter edge, with tough black fruits. Maybe it needs time for the wine to soften and meld with the tight acidity.——R.V.(8/1/2009)—— 85