1997 Quinta do Noval Late Bottled Vintage (WIML89,WA88,NOWS)

Tasted March 26, 2005 at an offline so brief comments only. Opened and served immediately in Spiegelau Authentis Sweet Wine glasses. Dark crimson color in the glass. The nose came across just a tad on the hot side but not offputting. Both the nose and palate displayed dark plums, currants and raisins (duh!). Pleasant enough for an LBV. I wouldn’t seek this out at this stage of the game but if found at an acceptable price I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up a few for the cellar. Should hold for five years easily and perhaps pick up a point or two in the process.

NOTE: The WA88 rating above is for the 1997 Quinta do Noval Late Bottled (Vintage Character) which I believe is the same wine. Hopefully somebody can clarify.

WIML,

It is indeed the same wine.

As for the '97, I've had two bottles of it & both showed quite hot for the first hour or so after opening. After that (both bottles were drunk over the period of 3-4 days) the wine became much richer and fuller, with the alcohol disappearing into the background. It just needs some time open to really show its stuff.

Skip the '98 by the way.

Rieslingfan, one of the "port heads" on WS Forums, StevieCage, said there are actually two different bottlings iirc. FWIW.