The 2008 Touriga Nacional Reserva “Vista TN,” aged for 12 months in French oak, is a mouthful in this vintage, opening rich and chocolatey. It seemed almost too rich. It did acquire some balance rather with aeration, losing a lot of the chocolate and showing good integration of tannins and fruit. It also showed a bit of character, becoming earthy with air, adding a hint of game. This is a nice successor to the 2007, and might be a touch better. In any event, it is a nice mouthful at this price level. Drink now-2017. Importer: Tri-Vin Imports, Mount Vernon, NY; tel :(914) 664-3155;

From central Portugal, here is a dark, firm wine, perfumed with hints of violets and given depth of flavor by the year’s wood aging. A warm, big-hearted wine with a solid core. ——R.V.(11/1/2011)—— 90

The 2007 TOURIGA NACIONAL RESERVA “VISTA TN,” aged for one year in oak, is a significant step up on the Tinta Roriz Vista, reviewed this issue. In the value lineup of wines reviewed this issue from this winery, it would likely be my pick, but it may draw some divergent opinions. It shows some tannic power and lingering fruit, penetration and focus. Elegant in the mid-palate, it also shows some rusticity with some gamey notes that may not make everyone happy. It is, though, bright and well structured, quite a mouthful for the price. It should be a very nice value on the shelf. Just drink it on the younger side for best results, however long it holds, although note that at the time tasted (July, 2010) it was approachable, but a little tight. Drink now-2015. Caves Alianca and its sister winery Bacalhoa provide some pretty decent values in this report. Just remember that these and most entry level wines hit peak fast and usually need to be drunk on the younger and fresher side for best results.Importer: Tri-Vin Imports, Mt. Vernon, NY; tel. (914) 664-3155; importer for Quinta da Garrida only: Winebow, Inc., Montvale, N.J.; tel: (201) 445-0620