The 2009 Tinto (Quinta Do Vesuvio) adds a layer or depth to the Pombal, its little brother, plus a certain high toned, herbal, rhubarb-y nuance. It does not show a lot of tension or intensity, but the oak is well integrated and the wine is quite graceful and velvety. It has reasonable concentration and a solid feel. This is a nice wine from many perspectives, assuming you like its distinctive flavor profile. Bargain hunters will seek out its little brother, the friendly and lovely Pombal this year, which frankly, considering all the pros and cons, I liked about as much, granting that this certainly has better concentration and structure. Drink now-2019. Importer: Premium Port Wines, San Francisco, Ca.; tel. (415) 554-9920

Rich wine, as befits a ripe year, full of damson jam and sweet tannins. Of course, it is still very young in a ripe fruity style. The structure is all there, ready for aging. ——R.V.(12/31/2011)—— 93