Rapariga da Quinta Tinto 2006

• Area: Portugal, Alentejano
• Grape: Alicante bouschet, Aragones (Tempranillo), Trincadeira
• Alcohol: 14%
• Rating: Black 87 Dilettante 87

Description: Aromas of black raspberry, spice, vanilla and burning wood. This food wine has an attack that is fruity with a licorice undertone. Bright and vibrant in the mouth, it finishes with lingering tannins and crushed grape seeds. Decanting softens this one up.

Price: $15

Note: Better with food than alone.

Loios J Portugal Ramos Vinho Rigional Alentejano 2007

Area: Portugal, Alentejano
Grape: Aragones (Tempranillo), Trincadeira, Castelao
Alcohol: 13.5%
Rating: Black 92 Dilettante 90

Description: This festive fop is flush with fruity frenzy. Berries of every type and color explode on the palate. It's round, lush and oh so dry. A hint of white pepper finishes it off. Absolutely no wood found here.

Price: $11