The 2008 “CC” is a blend of Castelao Nacional (a.k.a., Camarate) and Cabernet Sauvignon aged in a mixture of tank and used oak for 24 months. The oak is too prominent on this wine at the outset, but it does have some chance to integrate better. To some extent it did with aeration, eventually showing an earthy side as well. Other than that, this is nicely constructed, focused and balanced, with an elegant but adequately deep mid-palate. It may yet improve a bit more in the cellar. Drink now-2022. Importer: Tri-Vin Imports, Mt. Vernon, NY; tel. (914) 664-3155

The 2004 CC, so-called because of its blend (Cabernet Sauvignon and Castelao Nacional), is an elegant, nicely focused bottle with some intensity on the finish. The mid-palate concentration is modest, but the wine has a substantial feel to it anyway. Tight on the finish with air, this seems likely to hold decently in the cellar, and may develop some more character with age. As it is, it seems beautifully balanced and flavorful, with nice acidity delivering the fruit to the palate. Warning: don’t get confused. The CC label looks pretty much the same as the label on the Pinot Noir bottle reviewed here—except there is a purple swirl here with the letters “CC.” You may have to look twice to notice they are letters. The front labels of each bottle contain no indication of vintage or grape. The bottles are differently shaped, though—this in a squat bottle with a shoulder, the Pinot Noir in a fat, sloped bottle. Drink now-2014. 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