The 2007 PERIQUITA is an old war horse wine, a familiar brand. In this vintage it is 75% Castelao, with the rest Trincadeira and Aragonez. This is a more restrained Periquita this year—deliberately so, according to the winemaker--opening with a touch of oak, but not much overt fruitiness. It is quite elegant and bright, and comes around surprisingly well. There is little mid-palate depth, but it is a charming wine for relatively early consumption. It is the type of wine that may decline relatively rapidly from its peak, however long it holds. Drink now-2015. Importer: Palm Bay Imports, Port Washington, NY; tel. (561) 362-9462

A bright, fruity wine, with a layer of earthiness and gentle tannins. Flavors of red currants, beetroot and perfumed herbs meld together, while the lively acidity sets a good seal on the aftertaste.——R.V.(4/1/2010)—— 86