Don Guerino Ancellotta Gran Reserva 2007, Serra Gaucha (N/A in the UK)
Rich, rounded and spicy wine, broad shouldered with a savoury edge, hints of vanilla and pumice stone, lush plush berry and plum, maybe a touch too ripe, but pretty good. B(+)

Santo Emílio ‘Leopoldo’ Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2007, Serra Catarinense (N/A in the UK)
Initially seems a little OTT, with bold chocolate wafer-style oak, notes of almonds and vanilla and dark berry fruit that veers towards the pruney. However, given the chance to calm down, a more subtle herby side emerges, and the fruit seems to pick up freshness. S(-)

Salton Talento 2007, Tuiuty (N/A in the UK)
Cabernet and Merlot are the main grapes here, but the smoky ashy chocolatey edge of Tannat also comes through strongly. Another one with a savoury edge to its fruit, and – again – another one where I’d have preferred the grapes to be picked slightly earlier when they had more freshness and bounce. But still tasty. B+

Miolo Merlot ‘Terroir’ 2008, Vale dos Vinhedos, Serra Gaucha (~£22 Barwell & Jones)
Again very ripe, but there seems to be a little more freshness here. Intense, fleshy and plummy berry fruit propped up by smoky bacon-tinged oak, and an earthy finish that speaks of soil rather than just winemaking. S