Calvados, Cabernet Blends, Por...
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Quinta do Noval Nacional Vintage Port 2011This is the first time Noval have declared their famous Nacional since 2003 so this is an exciting development. Very dark purple stains the inside of the glass. Gosh, a massive bruiser of a wine. There is such concentration here that not much aroma can escape initially. Wild, peppery stuff. Then wonderfully juicy and spicy. This is like the ultimate biodynamic wine with lots of microbiology going on, in a good way. Very clean and fresh on the finish. Not notably sweet and with more marked acidity than some. A big contrast to, for example, Fonseca 2011. This is all about subtle topnotes rather than broad lusciousness. So vital! JANCIS ROBINSON, 2013
The 2011 Quinta do Noval Nacional has an entrancing bouquet that unfolds with time. It is extraordinarily concentrated with black currant pastilles, baked earth, a touch of terracotta and bay leaf that gains more dimension with time. Yet there is undeniable purity and elegance here, a seductive chorus of aromas perfectly in tune. The palate has a wondrous symmetry and focus, perfect acidity and immense purity. Everything here is so precise and at the same time, unassuming, as if this Nacional is aware of its breeding without the impulse to brag about it. It has closed down just a little since last year, but I take this as a positive sign that this legendary Nacional will delight for decades rather than years. This is the kind of elixir that leaves you speechless – surely the finest Nacional since the ethereal 1963. NEAL MARTIN, 20142011PortPortugal450$4,500.00 As low as $4,050.00 -
Lafleur 2002 3000ml OWBA wonderful minerally nose with a savory, almost biscuity touch from the Cabernet Franc. The palate is very supple and lithe, but there is immense concentration here. Rounded, seamless tannins almost meaty on the mid-palate. The Cabernet Franc really makes this wine. A sublime, slightly savory finish. Very persistent length. This is an outstanding 2002. Tasted April 2005. NEAL MARTIN
Somewhat of a revelation in a vintage that was obviously difficult in this appellation, Lafleur’s 2002 represents the essence of old vines with structured, deep, concentrated flavors. This medium-bodied, dense ruby/purple-colored effort exhibits impressive purity as well as a persistent, long palate offering a kiss of sweet kirsch and licorice. Some jagged tannin needs to be resolved if this wine is to merit a score in the low nineties. However, it will be very long-lived, especially for a Pomerol. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2025 ROBERT PARKER
2002Cabernet BlendsFrance356$5,500.00 As low as $4,950.00