NV Quinta do Noval LBV
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Tasting notes
Noval were the first to produce an LBV in the Douro, in 1954. They decided in 1960 that it was nuisance and made it instead as a non vintage, hence Late Bottled or LB (a registered brand). It spends 4-5 years in wood before bottling. Taylors reinvented LBV in the 1970s and then Noval introduced its own LBV. This is made from 65% estate grapes and 50% from their traditional grape suppliers. RS 84 g/l, pH 3.54. Sweet fruit, more delicate on the nose than the ruby. A little more complex, subtle but still fruit dominated. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The impressive non-vintage Late Bottled (vintage character) port, which is sweeter than the N.V. Old Coronation, possesses fabulous fruit, and that wonderful spice and smoky chocolate character found in quality port. Dense, rich, and showy, this is excellent value in high quality port. Importer: William Grant & Sons, Edison, NJ; tel. (908) 225-9000