Quinta do Noval Noval Black NV 750ml

I always love this cuvée, which offers tons of character for a great price. Classic Noval notes of spicy red and blue fruits, orange blossom, cigar, tobacco, and candied mint emerge from the NV Black, and It’s round, supple, and full-bodied on the palate, with nicely balanced sugar, a layered yet elegant mouthfeel, and a great finish. Delivering richness as well as freshness, you could certainly do a lot worse for the price. It also holds up nicely with air, and I was able to follow this bottle for multiple days. It’s great today and will be great in 7–8 years as well, if not over a decade, although this is not something you need to hide in the cellar.

This is a straightforward, no-nonsense Port at a great price. A beautiful big mouthful of fresh ripe plum and damson fruit, with a creamy dark chocolate edge leading to a sweet, smoky finish. Silky tannins hold it all together.