Dark purple. Lots of fruit on the nose, dark fruit, cherry along with some earth and vegetal aromas. On the palate the fruit seems a bit fresher with some oak, medium weight with good balance - the tannins still a bit grippy. Decent finish.
March 2011.

For most of us, Portugal represents Vintage and Tawny Port, the thick, rich and greatest example of fortified wine. But are you aware that the Portuguese also make really good dry red wine? This one is from Douro and is made with the same grapes used in the production of port except it’s not fortified with brandy spirits. Aromas of highly concentrated dark fruit with a hint of dark chocolate precede smooth blackberries accented by black pepper and spice. Try it with prime rib.

The 2007 Messias Grande Escolha is medium bodied, nicely aromatic, integrated wine. The nose reveals raspberry, prune and oak, whereas the palate reveals more of raspberry and prune. Tannins are refined (decant for 30 to 60 min) and the finish is medium. It is good to drink now or hold for 5 years. My impression: NICE, 88 pts - good value for $14. Tasted June/11.

If you would like to see wines I recommend and that are still available at the LCBO, please visit this link (listed in my profile):

http://www.winealign.com/wino/dantrcka/recommended-wines-you-can-still-buy

Deep and rich looking with purple and burnt ruby shades. Aromas of sweet ripe dark berries, cocoa and vanilla. Juicy, big and mouth filling with fruit and instant gription, but not over-drying gription. Coffee bean flavours with the savoury meaty texture of a kidney bean. Fresh creamy oak, well placed acidity and well integrated alcohol. A big wine for the price, very well balanced and hearty. Roasted lamb shoulder with stewed tomatoes and olives. Tasted June '11