I took a chance on a close-out, the Quinta do Noval Silval Vintage Port 2000, at one of my local shops. They "clearanced" out a big selection of older vintage stuff and I found this at less than half price... actually more like 70% off...
Vintage port is usually cost prohibitive, especially for a vintage that is ready for consumption. Furthermore, 2000 is a stellar year for port! So, what the heck, right?
The cork disintegrated when I tried to open it, but this was no surprise. I just decanted twice, using a coffee filter to strain out the remaining cork pieces and settlement. Oh my, there was much unfiltered residual sediment in this bad boy! Just as a note, do decant and filter any older port like this one. These are mostly unfiltered and with age, they do drop tannin and other sediment.
I'll quote Thewinedoctor.com's review of this wine from 2003:
Dense and powerful fruit - we have clearly moved up a gear here. Immense richness, power and easily sensed extract on the palate. Piles of tannin, grip and appropriate acidity. A lovely wine which needs a decade in the cellar at the very least. 18+/20 (December 2003)
So how has it aged? Superb! The tannin has subsided into deep dark fruit and mild acidity. This is a great pair to dark chocolate or truffles. The finish is miles long and the taste is expensive. This is living large at a small price! I would jump on this one if you can find it at an affordable price.
T-Scale 92+
Price $29 - $39, but was about $100 at release. Egad.. what a steal!
So how has it aged? Superb! The tannin has subsided into deep dark fruit and mild acidity. This is a great pair to dark chocolate or truffles. The finish is miles long and the taste is expensive. This is living large at a small price! I would jump on this one if you can find it at an affordable price.
T-Scale 92+
Price $29 - $39, but was about $100 at release. Egad.. what a steal!
