Always the workhorse in the Sogrape stable, this wine never seems to fail. And here it comes through once again. Tight and compact at first, it opens into a forest of spice, herbs and Portuguese oak. There’s a lot of wine here for the money, and it will age well over a couple of years. Flavorful and full of character, this is the epitome of good, basic Portuguese red wine. Best Buy.——M.S.(10/1/1999)—— 87