The 2009 ESTEVA (CASA FERREIRINHA) is a typical Douro blend, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca and Touriga Nacional, aged in stainless steel. Fruity and fresh, with soft tannins, this is an exuberant young wine with attractive, easy drinking appeal and a slight nod to Beaujolais. It is the type of wine that will fade from peak rapidly, however long it holds, but I suspect in the short term it can be a crowd pleasing, party favorite, fragrant, tasty and a little fat this year. It’s great right now. Drink now-2013. Importer: Broadbent Selections, San Francisco, Ca.; (415) 931-1725.

Fresh red berry fruits, with acidity and also a good soft texture. The wine has a ripe, juicy character to go with the spice and light tannins. For early drinking.——R.V.(11/1/2010)—— 85

The 2007 Esteva (Casa Ferreirinha) is a blend of Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca from various Quintas. Soft and accessible, tasty and quite charming, this approachable, entry level wine is a reasonable value in this vintage. There is not much of a backbone, but it is lively enough to avoid being called flabby. Drinking it on the younger side will be to its advantage and yours, even if holds awhile. Drink now-2012. Importer: Evaton, Inc, Stamford, Ct.; tel: (203) 968-8220 for wines under Sogrape’s own label; for Casa Ferreirinha wines, indicating wines Sogrape acquired from the Ferreira house: Broadbent Selections, San Francisco, Ca.; tel: (415) 931-1725.

Subtle smoke shadings color the predominantly blackberry and chocolate aromas before yielding to plum and black-cherry fruit flavors. Features a satiny, refined mouthfeel and finishes a bit tart. A drink-me-now quaffer that hits the right notes.——W.E.(10/1/2000)—— 87