Upon opening - This wine was a deep crimson with a purple core. The nose was very closed, not offering much at all at this point. On the palette there was an initial blast of spirit, which was not yet very well integrated as well as delicate notes of cherry & dark fruit. The finish was remarkably long and rather pleasing.
14 hrs. – The nose was slightly more developed with less obvious spirit and a presence of cherry notes. The palette revealed a nice concentration of cherry, dark fruits, brown sugar and hints of chocolate. The fruit was much more integrated at this point, but the finish seemed much shorter than in my previous tasting.
24 hrs. – The nose has not evolved much since the last tasting which is somewhat disappointing. On the palette anise, cherry & dark fruits dominate but there are still hints of chocolate in the background. The fruit is more concentrated than at the 14 hr. mark and the finish is now much longer and very enjoyable. The spirit is still present, but the fruit is now almost totally integrated. All in all, this seemed to mark the peak in the development of this port. 88 pts.
Marc
1995 Quinta Do Noval Vintage Port
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