Quinta do Noval is a renowned name in the world of wine, particularly famous for its exceptional Port wines. Located in the heart of Portugal’s Douro Valley, this historic estate has earned a well-deserved reputation for producing wines of unparalleled quality. The story of Quinta do Noval is one of tradition, innovation, and a deep connection to the land that spans centuries. In this article, we will explore the fascinating history of Quinta do Noval, its alcohol percentage, the types of wines it produces, its price range, and how to best enjoy its wines.
Quinta do Noval History
The history of Quinta do Noval dates back to the 17th century, when the estate was first established. The name “Quinta do Noval” itself refers to the “new farm” in Portuguese, highlighting the fresh beginnings of a vineyard in an era where the Douro Valley was rapidly emerging as a prime location for viticulture.
The estate’s location in the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine regions, has always been integral to its success. Quinta do Noval is located in the Pinhão Valley, where the Douro River runs through steep terraced vineyards, creating ideal conditions for growing grapes. The terroir, which includes a mix of rocky soils, hot summers, and cool winters, allows for the cultivation of grapes that produce exceptional wines.
Throughout its history, Quinta do Noval has been home to a series of visionary wine producers. In the early 20th century, the estate became a leader in Port wine production. It was one of the first producers to produce “Vintage Port” under its own label, a practice that was innovative for its time and which continues to this day.
A pivotal moment in the estate’s history occurred in 1981, when it was acquired by the prestigious French company AXA Millésimes. This move brought with it an infusion of modern winemaking techniques and expertise, allowing Quinta do Noval to refine its processes while staying true to its historical roots.
Despite changes in ownership, Quinta do Noval has remained a symbol of quality and tradition. Its unique position within the Douro Valley, combined with the expertise and passion of the winemakers, ensures that it continues to produce world-class wines.
Quinta do Noval Alcohol Percentage
The alcohol percentage of Quinta do Noval wines varies depending on the type of wine in question. As a producer of primarily Port wines, it’s important to note that Port wines generally have higher alcohol content than regular table wines. Most Port wines, including those produced by Quinta do Noval, have an alcohol content between 19% and 22% ABV (alcohol by volume). This is due to the process of fortification, where the fermentation of the grapes is interrupted by the addition of a distilled grape spirit (aguardente). This not only preserves the natural sweetness of the wine but also increases the alcohol percentage.
Vintage Ports
Quinta do Noval’s renowned Vintage Ports typically fall within the 20-22% ABV range. These are considered the pinnacle of Port wine production and are designed to age for decades. They are full-bodied, rich, and complex wines that evolve over time.
Tawny Ports
Tawny Ports from Quinta do Noval have a slightly lower alcohol content, typically around 19-20% ABV. The extended aging in wooden casks imparts a smoother, nuttier flavor profile compared to the intense fruitiness of a Vintage Port.
Ruby Ports
Ruby Ports from Quinta do Noval, like other Ruby Ports, generally contain 19-20% ABV. These wines are less aged and are known for their fresh, fruity characteristics.
Quinta do Noval Types
Quinta do Noval is best known for its diverse range of Port wines, each with distinct characteristics and aging potential. Below are the main types of wines produced by the estate:
1. Vintage Port
Quinta do Noval’s Vintage Ports are considered some of the finest examples of this iconic style. Vintage Ports are made from the best grapes of a single harvest, which are selected for their exceptional quality. These wines are aged for a short period in barrels before being bottled and left to mature in the bottle for many years, sometimes decades. Quinta do Noval’s Vintage Ports are renowned for their rich, complex flavors of dark fruit, spice, and chocolate, along with a full-bodied mouthfeel and firm tannins.
The most famous expression of Vintage Port from Quinta do Noval is the Nacional Vintage Port, which is produced from a small parcel of ancient, ungrafted vines on the estate. This wine is extremely rare and highly sought after due to its limited production and exceptional quality.
2. Tawny Port
Tawny Ports from Quinta do Noval are known for their smooth and mellow characteristics, which result from aging in oak barrels for extended periods. The aging process allows the wine to oxidize slowly, developing flavors of dried fruit, nuts, caramel, and spices. Quinta do Noval produces a variety of Tawny Ports, including those aged for 10, 20, 30, and 40 years. Each of these expressions offers a different level of complexity and depth, with the 40-year-old Tawny being a particularly luxurious and well-rounded wine.
3. Ruby Port
Ruby Ports are the most accessible and affordable type of Port wine, known for their youthful, fruity flavors. Quinta do Noval’s Ruby Ports are no exception, offering bright red fruit notes such as cherry and raspberry, along with a touch of spice. These wines are aged for a shorter time than Tawny or Vintage Ports, typically in stainless steel or wooden casks, to preserve their fresh, fruity character.
4. LBV (Late Bottled Vintage) Port
Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port is a style of wine that falls between Ruby and Vintage Port in terms of aging and complexity. It is made from grapes harvested in a single year and aged in barrels for four to six years before being bottled. Quinta do Noval’s LBV Ports are rich and full-bodied, with flavors of dark berries, chocolate, and spice, and they are ready to drink upon release.
5. White Port
Though less famous than its red counterparts, Quinta do Noval also produces high-quality White Port. Made from white grape varieties such as Gouveio, Malvasia Fina, and Rabigato, White Port has a lighter, fresher character, with flavors of citrus, almonds, and honey. It can be enjoyed chilled as an aperitif or used in a variety of cocktails.
Quinta do Noval Price
The price of Quinta do Noval wines can vary significantly depending on the type and age of the wine. Here is a general breakdown of the pricing:
1. Vintage Port
Quinta do Noval Vintage Ports are premium wines, and their prices reflect this. A bottle of Quinta do Noval Vintage Port can range from $100 to $500, depending on the vintage and availability. The Nacional Vintage Port, being an exclusive and rare wine, can fetch prices of $1,000 or more per bottle.
2. Tawny Port
Tawny Ports from Quinta do Noval are typically more affordable, with bottles starting around $40 for a 10-year-old Tawny. The price increases with age, with 20-year-old Tawny Ports priced around $75-$100, and 40-year-old Tawny Ports reaching $150 or more.
3. Ruby Port
Ruby Ports from Quinta do Noval are the most affordable option, with prices typically ranging from $20 to $40 per bottle. These wines offer great value for money, delivering the characteristic fruity flavors of a classic Port.
4. LBV (Late Bottled Vintage) Port
LBV Ports from Quinta do Noval are also reasonably priced, typically ranging from $40 to $60 per bottle. They offer a good balance of complexity and accessibility.
5. White Port
White Port from Quinta do Noval is priced similarly to Ruby Ports, with bottles typically available for around $25 to $40.
How to Enjoy Quinta do Noval
Quinta do Noval wines are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings and with different foods. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your Quinta do Noval experience:
1. Serve at the Right Temperature
- Vintage Ports should be served at a temperature of around 60-65°F (15-18°C), which allows their complexity to open up without being too cold.
- Tawny Ports can be served slightly cooler, at 50-55°F (10-13°C), to highlight their delicate, nutty flavors.
- Ruby Ports are best served at room temperature or slightly chilled, around 60°F (15°C).
- White Ports should be served chilled, ideally at 45-50°F (7-10°C).
2. Pairing with Food
- Vintage Port pairs wonderfully with rich foods such as dark chocolate, blue cheese, or a hearty steak.
- Tawny Port is excellent with desserts like crème brûlée, nuts, or dried fruit.
- Ruby Port works well with lighter cheeses, charcuterie, or grilled meats.
- White Port can be paired with seafood, light salads, or even served as an aperitif with a splash of tonic water and a slice of lemon.
3. Decanting
Vintage Port, especially those from exceptional years, benefits from decanting. The wine can have sediment, and decanting helps separate it while allowing the wine to breathe and open up its complex aromas and flavors. A decanter is also a great way to showcase the wine’s deep color.
Conclusion
Quinta do Noval has a rich and storied history that spans over four centuries. From its early days in the Douro Valley to its current standing as one of the world’s most prestigious Port producers, the estate has remained committed to crafting exceptional wines. Whether you’re enjoying a full-bodied Vintage Port, a mellow Tawny, or a fresh White Port, Quinta do Noval offers a wide array of styles to suit every taste. With prices ranging from accessible to ultra-premium, there’s a Quinta do Noval wine for every occasion. By understanding the best ways to serve and pair these wines, you can fully appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. So next time you raise a glass of Quinta do Noval, you’ll be drinking a piece of Portuguese winemaking history.
You Might Be Interested In:
