Casa Ferreirinha, Douro DOC (Portugal) 2018

 As we head into summer weather, a versatile, easy-drinking red wine that can be slightly chilled may just be what we want.  “Esteva,” a proprietary blend, fills that need and is also an excellent value.  Made from four varieties (Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Touiga Franca, and Touiga Nacional) grown in high altitude vineyards, the wine was fermented and cellared in stainless steel.  Bottled young, it is medium dark in color and offers berry fruit with a touch of floral in the background.  On the palate it is lively, with good fruit, round, and fleshy in texture.  Long, clean finish, nicely balanced.