90 Mark Squires - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"The 2009 Garrafeira Private Selection, sourced from vines with an average of 20 years of age in the Reguengos sub-region, is a blend of Alicante Bouschet (40%), Aragones (30%) and Syrah (30%), all aged for 18 months in new French oak. Despite the vintage date, this is a Garrafeira and it is the current release. It comes in at 14% alcohol. This is a nice mouthful, another fine Garrafeira from the winery. Surprisingly approachable and elegant in its own way, this manages to coat the palate with rich fruit, topped off with its share of sweet oaky nuances, yet seems graceful at the same time. Not overly powerful or particularly concentrated, it still holds its own and provides grip and tension on the finish to support the fruit. It tightens a bit with air, showing some needed intensity. If the mid-palate concentration seems modest, the fruit is awfully tasty. Those who love this are not going to be the intellectual types leaning to structure and earthiness. Call it a sexy beast with some restraint, and completely delicious. Its price point, admittedly, may give some pause, but as a wine it should be a hit with those who like its easygoing, fruit-forward style. Drink now-2023. "

"As a group, these are well priced, but the entry-level whites here ($7.00-$13.00) are lovely bargains. Admittedly, I am seeing them not long after bottling when it is easy to swoon over their amazing freshness and exuberance. That said, it is hard to find things to admire in this price range, but this winery provides many choices. There is a lot of good summer drinking here. The white Reserva is a pretty nice value, too, although the price jumps a bit. You can argue a long time over what you like best, but chill ‘em down, and knock ‘em back. These are wines to drink, not obsess over. The best of them will make both geeks and novices happy."