In my continued effort to taste as many Port wines as possible, this is the latest to hit the gums.  It looks sinister, dark blackish purple in the glass.  The nose is somewhat subdued, but what I get is black currant jam with some wet towel funk I can’t get over.  The palate is totally different, which is where it really counts.  Notes of black berry, cherry extract and oak all hit the palate at once.  It’s a crescendo of syrupy extract.  There is a certain amount of very fine tannins that pop up mid-palate and dry the hell out of my gums.  The flavors are all dark fruit, with a certain concentration as to be expected.  The finish is very dry with loads of black currants, some earth and a touch of biting oak.  90 points from me for this non-vintage $15 wine.  I like it, and will get more of this 4 star wine.  Salut….

As you may have read recently, I’m on a Port kick and looking to try as many styles as possible.  This one is labelled Reserve, no info on Tawn, Ruby or LBV.  It is dark purple, almost inky.  The nose is rich with fig, blueberry paste and chocolate dust.  On the palate it is refreshingly vibrant with plum, blueberry and a bracing acidic component.  I sense a warmth on the mid palate that I attribute to tannins mingling with the 19.5% alcohol.  The heat doesn’t bother me, it is well integrated as are the tannins.  On the finish I am reminded of this wine’s youth, the mouthfeel is fresh and dry. More plums and blueberry pie show up on the tail end.  The wine is tasty and well made, 89 points from me.  On sale for $15 it is a good deal- 4 stars.