Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port

Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port: A Symphony of Age and Vibrancy

A captivating Tawny Port, the Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old showcases the brilliance of this producer's style. Aged for an average of a decade in seasoned oak casks, this Port strikes a delightful balance between the rich, nutty characteristics of maturity and the freshness of youthful fruit.

This detailed tasting note explores the sensory profile of this remarkable Tawny Port, along with perfect food pairings to elevate your drinking experience.

Visual:

The Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port boasts a beautiful tawny colour, characterised by its vibrancy and brilliance. This rich amber hue hints at the wine's age and the complexity of flavours to come.

Nose:

On the nose, a captivating interplay of aromas unfolds. The initial bouquet reveals youthful and vibrant notes of red berries like cherry and raspberry. These intertwine seamlessly with the alluring characteristics developed through cask ageing, such as toasted nuts (walnut and hazelnut) and hints of dried fruits (fig and apricot). Subtle touches of spice and a touch of smokiness add further intrigue to this captivating aromatic profile.

Palate:

The first sip of the Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port is a revelation. The texture is luxuriously smooth and rich, coating the palate with a delightful weight. The flavours echo the complexity hinted at on the nose. Ripe, dried fruits like fig, prune, and apricot take centre stage, balanced beautifully by hints of honey, caramel, and toffee. These richer notes are complemented by a refreshing acidity that keeps the palate lively and prevents the wine from becoming cloying. Subtle peppery notes linger on the finish, adding a touch of elegance and extending the delightful experience.

Food Pairing:

The Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port's versatility makes it a fantastic choice for a variety of food pairings. Here are some suggestions to unlock its full potential:

• Cheese:  This Tawny Port pairs exceptionally well with a selection of cheeses. Creamy blue cheeses like Stilton or Gorgonzola find a perfect match in the Port's rich sweetness and acidity. Mature Cheddar or Gouda offer a contrasting textural experience, while the nutty notes in the Port complement these cheeses beautifully.
• Desserts:  The Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port is a natural companion to desserts. Its sweetness and complexity stand up well to rich, decadent treats. Pair it with fruit tarts or crumbles, chocolate desserts (especially dark chocolate), or crème brûlée for a truly indulgent experience.
• Dried Fruits and Nuts: A simple yet satisfying pairing is dried fruits and nuts with the Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port. The natural sweetness of the dried fruits complements the Port's flavours, while the nuts echo the nutty characteristics developed through ageing. This is a perfect pairing for after-dinner nibbles.
• Appetisers: Surprisingly, the Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port can also be enjoyed as an apéritif. Serve it slightly chilled to bring out its refreshing acidity. The sweetness and nutty notes make it a great partner for cured meats, pâtés, and hard cheeses.

Serving Suggestions:

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port slightly chilled, ideally between 10-14°C. This temperature range preserves the wine's freshness and vibrancy while allowing the richer, aged characteristics to shine through. Consider using a small Port glass to concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience.

Conclusion:

The Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port is a testament to the expertise of this renowned producer. It offers a captivating drinking experience, showcasing the perfect balance between aged complexity and youthful vibrancy. With its versatility in food pairing, this Tawny Port is sure to become a treasured addition to your wine collection.

Looking to purchase the Quinta do Noval 10 Year Old Tawny Port? Look no further than The General Wine Company. We offer a wide selection of Ports, including this exceptional Tawny, at competitive prices. Visit our website or contact us today to explore our range and place your order.