The 2008 Tinto is a blend of Castelao (30%), Trincadeira (20%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%), Alicante Bouschet (20%) and Touriga Nacional (10%) Often an extremely good value, coming in at a dirt cheap price and providing a classy, elegant feel, this wine delivers real bang for the buck this year as well. Light in the mid-palate, it is nonetheless persistent, not immediately fading or thinning. Indeed, there is an obvious tannic punch on the finish and it seems quite gripping, at least in its youth, as well as bright and crisp. The flavors are very intense in its youth - considering that half the wine is made from Alicante Bouschet and Castelao, that is no surprise. Expect it to calm down a bit by mid 2011, but note that its structure and graceful demeanor always make it seem like real wine. It should hold rather well for a wine in this price range, but it will still likely be best now and in the next year or two. Considering that there were over 10,000 cases imported (roughly one third of its production), this is a worthwhile pickup that should be easy to latch onto. Drink now-2014. Importer: Tri-Vin Imports, Mt. Vernon, NY; tel. (914) 664-3155