I also tasted a white Tamara, which was acidic and lean. The red wine, a blend of 90% Periquita and 10% Trincadiera Preta, is a fruit-driven effort revealing abundant quantities of rich black cherries, spice box, and pepper, supple tannin, and a medium-bodied, moderately weighty style. Think of it as a Cotes du Rhone from Portugal. Fortunately, there are 25,000 cases. Drink it over the next 1-2 years.Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel (540) 722-9228

The 1998 Tamara Tinto (made primarily from the Periquita grape with 10% Trincadiera) is a fruit-driven, soft, berry-scented/flavored wine with medium body, good spice, and an uncomplicated, gutsy style. Drink it over the next 1-2 years.Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel (540) 722-9228