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