At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the 2003 Camartina is a drop-dead gorgeous effort. Fat, rich and opulent, it will reward consumers with its generous super-ripe fruit, great length and beautiful overall balance. While it doesn’t look to be one of the more long-lived Camartinas, with some air it is drinking beautifully today. It is a very refined effort in this vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2018. Importer: Maison Marques & Domaines, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 587-2000

Sweet, warm tones of mature cherry and blueberry preserves make for a thick and concentrated wine that leaves a long trail of luscious fruit on the palate. The wood tones are overt and bring notes of vanilla, toasted almond and leather to the wine. Ready to drink now.——M.L.(4/1/2008)—— 91