The 2004 “Palha Canas Reserva” is a blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Castelao, and Camarate, aged in Portuguese and American oak barrels. Although the texture is round, the oak is rather controlled. It has a velvety feel, with tannins evident for support, good flavors and intensity. It is a rather good value for the money that can age for a few years with grace. As it aired out, it seemed charming and tasty, although it did begin to thin a little. It is not the biggest wine in this lineup, but it is probably the most charming and least eccentric. Drink 2007-2011. This producer turns out a bevy of value-priced wines, both as single varietals and in somewhat unusual combinations (like Pinot Noir/Touriga Nacional). The owner says, “We look for complementary combinations, and in this particular case, by marrying the Pinot Noir with the Touriga Nacional, the velvet and smoothness of the Pinot softened the tannins of Touriga and on the other hand the Touriga Nacional contributed with a good structure, body and colour to the blend.” Some seem rather eccentric, but the best of them have rather good structure for their price ranges and offer fair values, as the winery has a commendable desire to provide something more than inexpensive fruit bombs.Importers: Tri-Vin Imports, Mt. Vernon, N.Y.; tel: (914) 664-3155; Vintage Trading, Waterbury, CT; tel. (203) 926-0894