Multi: 1974 Noval Colheita Port vs 1986 Noval Colheita Port

Philip Harvey · Post by **Philip Harvey** » Fri Dec 01, 2006 8:03 am

We thought it would be interesting to taste these two beauties alongside in a mini Noval vertical. Both from 1/2 bottle format...

Noval Colheita 1974

Mid amber mahogany cut through with a hint of ruby. Sweet 'porty' nose with a slight oxidised Madeira hint. A very rich almost creamy mouthfeel with mellow flavours of caramel and red cherries. In the background, a hint of coffee grounds and a distinctly ‘sweet & sour’ aspect to the flavour profile, vaguely reminiscent of sloes. Medium sweet with amazing grip and a cutting clean finish. Very good.

Noval Colheita 1986

A lovely deep rich amber with a ruby hint – a really lovely looking glass of port. Warm rich ripe flavours of dried figs and plum jam. A great balance between the sweet midweight entry and a fresh grippy long lingering finish. A really elegant wine but with plenty of power in reserve. Outstanding.

I know Roy likes the '74, but for my and my tasting buddy's palate, the '86 seemed to have everything the '74 had and more. A fresher wine as you'd expect, but a bit more power and depth of flavour as well.

So I bought a case.

Ronald Wortel · Post by **Ronald Wortel** » Fri Dec 01, 2006 9:05 am

Nice TN's, thanks! What were the bottling dates of the ports?

Philip Harvey · Post by **Philip Harvey** » Fri Dec 01, 2006 9:16 am

The 1974 was 2004 and the 1986 was 2003.

Post by **Roy Hersh** » Fri Dec 01, 2006 12:03 pm

Philip,

Thanks for your TNs and impressions of the wines. IF we all liked the exact same ones, this would be a pretty boring place. I prefer the diversity of opinions. Thanks for yours.