NV Quinta do Noval Tawny 40YO (bottled 2023)

[Alex Bridgeman]

We were invited to join a tasting organised for some visitors from the Carlton Club on the second morning of our two night stay at Noval. The tasting included this wine.

40YO Tawny, bottled 2023. Note the change of name from “Over 40 years old” due to the introduction of the 50YO category. Pop and pour. Deep olive brown colour, 40% opaque. Wonderful râncio on the nose, dried plum, dried rose petals… there is no end to the nose. Thick texture, rich yet with burnt caramel, crème brûlée and superb acidity. Layer after layer of flavour. The acidity shows strongly on the aftertaste, sticky orange, caramel, crepe suzette. Such a fabulous glass of wine!  94/100. Tasted 21-Jun-23. Pop 'n' pour.