The 2022 vintage reminded Christian Seely at Quinta do Noval of the 2017 and 1945 vintages, both notable for the resilience of their vines in the face of soaring temperatures. Seely describes 2022 as ‘a year of extremes’ but also believes this vintage will follow in the footsteps of previous highly rated vintages (and he is usually right about such matters).
Touriga Nacional was the star performer in 2022 and counts for the lion’s share of this year’s blend alongside smaller volumes of Tinto Cão, Sousão, Tinta Roriz and Touriga Francesa—all foot-trodden in temperature-controlled granite lagares. The wine matured for 18 months in old wooden barrels and was bottled in May 2024 with 89 g/L residual sugar.
Crafted from a rigorous selection of just 7% of the estate’s vines, it’s a luscious, ripe Noval with fruit flavours of black plums, violets and wild berries complemented by a delightful perfume that seamlessly intertwines with the velvety, luxurious texture. It’s perhaps the most accessible of Noval’s recent declarations, even if it does not want for staying power. The sheer vibrancy and balance captured this year are remarkable.