Marquês de Borba Reserva 2003

Dark cranberry red with less concentration but equivalent clarity as the non-reserva. The nose is a dead ringer for typical cellar aromas of ancient dust intermingling with wet oak, cement and an overwhelming bouquet of red fruit. This wine is complex, intriguing in it's presentation and an overall fabulous experience. As you open pandora's box, aromas of big blooming violets emerge in front of cinnamon, clove, cassis, white pepper, wood and charcoal. Firm tannins that seem to hold tight for hours on end, but eventually ease to unveil rich ripe red fruit, rich black spices and a touch of black earth. Remain cautious when pairing this wine with food, because although the acidity is bright,... more October 17, 2007

Deeper ruby color not more intense, just more concentrated than it's little brother. The nose is intense rich and reminds me of a small cellar of aging oak barrels all filled with wine. The fruit on this wine seems huge, but hidden behind a wall of wood, smoke, spice, and dried violets. Time will tell how this wine evolves. In the mouth this wine is rich and thick with tannins that coat the wall of my mouth like a painter who chooses a pallatte knife rather than a brush. Medium acidity and a pureness of fruit keep this wine drinkable, and it's after a bit of air that the cherries, raspberries and white pepper begin to show. Lush and alive, soft and inviting, this wine is a breath of fresh... more October 13, 2007