From a 2 night Annieversay party last month.

The 1997 Quinta do Noval still seemed like a barrel sample. It is still inky and really hasn't changed much since the last time we had it, about a year ago. It still has a gob of red and black fruit essences in the nose, all with upper intensity. The oak is not as spicy as the Offley but more vanillin and caramel. It still seems quite jammy. The palate is sweeter than the Offley with tremendous extract and fuller body. The finish is full on the fruit; tannin is ripe and well integrated already. This baby will continue to improve for atleast 10-15 with 20-30 years of life still remaining, lovely.