Douro
Cedro do Noval 2004
If you've ever had even a passing interest in Port, you will have heard of Quinta do Noval. This most be one of the most iconic Port houses going and they are now making table wine in the Douro. They have come a bit later to the game than many, but the wines are bloody good. This is the second wine and its a winner, friendly, plenty of Douro character and it doesn't break the bank. Well packaged too.
The nose starts off with something that I'm calling schisty: soot, hot rocks and earth along with some clove, sweet plum, cherry and pepper. Well balanced and smooth with supple tannins and loads of minerals on the finish. There is some great savoury fruit on the palate plums, cherries and rosella mixed in with some chocolate, pepper and minerals. Its a bit meaty, but very stylish. As is usual for Portuguese wines, acid is more of a supporting player, but here it plays its part well. An excellent addition to the growing range of Douro reds available in Australia. 91 Pts.
Source: Boccaccio Cellars Price: $44 Closure: Conventional Cork
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Looks good Shag. Is 2004 and 2005 in Portugal the same quality level as Spain?
Yeah mate, similar for the Douro at least. But as always it is very producer specific (i.e. some made better 04s, others better 05s)
04s and 05s were both very good in Portugal (2002 and 2006 were good, 2003 and 2007 were excellent) but diferent in style. As a rule, 04s are more easy and already “drinkable”. 05s has more power and need cellar time.
In terms of Ports, 2005 is much better than 2004 but yet not a classic vintage (2000 and 2003 were classic… maybe 2007).
Nuno
Thanks for that Nuno, its great to be able to get information from someone on the ground in Portugal.
Cheers,
Dave