This big-seller is a delicious mint and wood polished wine, its berry fruits rounded and softened. The tannins meld easily into a warm, rich, accessible, forward-fruited wine that is definitely ready to drink.——R.V.(4/1/2012)—— 87

A wine that brings out the mineral character of Touriga Nacional in the Dao. It has a dark quality to it, with some austerity, although the weight of fruit acts as a fine counterbalance. ——R.V.(8/1/2011)—— 88

If any proof were needed that Touriga Nacional is one of Portugal’s greatest vinous treasures, this wine offers it. It is both elegant and densely powerful, a many-layered wine that has firmly dry tannins (give it another 2–3 years of aging), herbs and black fruits and a big, chunky aftertaste that trails a lift of acidity. ——R.V.(3/1/2007)—— 90

Dao Sul wines are produced by a star-studded team of Portuguese winemakers, including Virgilio Loureiro, professor of enology at Lisbon University. They have produced a series of classics from the granite landscape of Dao. This wine has deep purple color and aromas of black dusty fruit. There are big tannins, but also opulent, sweet fruit with black-currant and cherry flavors. Spices and herbs complete the mix, along with the essential acidity. —R.V.——R.V.(12/31/2002)—— 91