2019 Quinta do Noval - Vintage Port 19,5%

Decanter.com – 95 pts – RM: *A dry summer with moderate temperatures and perfect weather through the harvest, which lasted well into October. Closed and sullen on the nose with underlying density and a hint of graphite; much more expressive on the palate with lovely, rich liquorice-like intensity (though not as dense or concentrated as the 2020) combined with lovely purity and freshness (the hallmark of this vintage). Firm, spicy tannins mid-palate leading to a long linear finish. Mid-weight with a classic profile showing balance and definition.* - 06/2022

JancisRobinson.com – 17,5+/20pts – JH: *Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinto Cão, Sousão, Tinta Roriz. Grapes are trodden by foot, then they macerate in the lagares. It is matured for 18 months in wooden casks. RS 100 g/l. Black core with black-cherry rim. On the nose this manages to be both opulent and somehow secretive, hinting at a long future just in the aroma. On the palate, this has fabulous richness without excess weight, and a tannic structure that is built to last but not in the least aggressive, even in youth. Perfect balance between power, fruit and freshness. The texture is thick and velvety already, with just enough freshness for harmony. Deep-pile tannins, huge depth of dark hedgerow fruit and a dry, rocky finesse on the finish that undermines the sweetness.* - 10/2021

Vinous.com – 96 pts – NM: *Noval has released 2,780 cases, equivalent to 15% of production, of the 2019 Quinta do Noval Vintage Port. A blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinto Cão, Sousão, Tinta Roriz, foot-trodden in lagares with 18 months in oak barrel. This is well defined on the nose, with dusky black fruit laced with graphite and clove. A serious rendition when compared directly with the more “playful” 2019 Passadouro; hints of liquorice, eucalyptus and boot polish emerge with time. The palate is medium-bodied with vivid red and black fruit, liquorice and black pepper, crisp acidity with a structured finish. This is a fresh, tensile Noval that will age with style.* - 09/2021