One of the oldest port houses, Quinta do Noval is also arguably the greatest. It is unique among the top houses in that most of the ports are made from estate-grown fruit and, notably, all of the vintage Noval wines are from the single Quinta do Noval vineyard. As Robert Parker writes in his 2005 book, The World’s Greatest Wine Estates: “Quinta do Noval is unusual among the great traditional Port houses in that it emphasizes the importance of the vineyard. The aim is to produce classic Vintage Ports that are harmonious and elegant expressions of Quinta do Noval’s terroir. Strict selection in the vineyard, low yields, and strict selection again in the tasting room result in a small production.”

Rating

Robert Parker 94 points (Oct 2005) The inky, purple-colored, opaque 2003 Quinta do Noval Vintage Port soars from the glass, revealing dates, black cherries, copious flowers, and plums. Full-bodied, broad, and lush, this top-flight wine is harmonious and exhibits stupendous purity of fruit. Blueberries, cherries, and candied strawberries can be found in its nuanced, lengthy, plum-laced core as well as in its immensely long, dried berry-tinged finish. Drink this beauty between 2020 and 2045+.  Wine Spectator 96 points (Apr 30 2006) What a nose. Ripe fruit, with chocolate, blackberries and raisins. Full-bodied and medium sweet, with velvety tannins. Finish goes on and on. Layered and wonderful. Best after 2014. 1,500 cases imported. –JS