Quinta Do Crasto 2007
DOC Douro, Portugal $14.95 (81588) 13.5% alcohol
Vinified from 4 of the premium grape varieties used in making Port, this must be one of the best-value, least-known reds in the Vintages Essentials Collection—the price-quality balance tips crazily in your favour. It opens with a tantalizing and perfumed nose of expressive aromas—spiced dark plum, dried crushed berry fruit and toasty notes. The rich balanced flavours are carried along on a ripe tannin frame and delightful spine of moderating acidity—black currant, fig, coffee and ripe mulberry. It’s medium bodied, well textured and sports a lingering lip-smacking finish. (VH)