Quinta Do Noval 1963 'Nacional' Vintage Port

Quinta do Noval 'Nacional' Vintage Port 1963 - Douro Valley, Portugal

A legendary vintage from one of the Douro’s most historic producers (founded in 1715!) and one of the great benchmark years of the 20th century. Noval’s 1963 shows extraordinary harmony today: a lifted, ethereal nose of dried cherry, rose petal, sandalwood and spiced fig, with gentle hints of tobacco and walnut. The palate is silky and weightless yet still amazingly persistent, carrying sweet red fruit, caramelised citrus and warm spice through a long, elegant, endlessly unfolding finish.

The Nacional parcels at Quinta do Noval are planted on ungrafted, phylloxera-surviving vines - a tiny plot of original Portuguese rootstock that continues to produce minuscule yields of intensely concentrated fruit. Production is extremely limited in any year, but in a legendary vintage like 1963, the wine gains near-mythic status. Bottles that have been well-cellared are among the most sought-after and collectible Ports in existence, prized for their purity, longevity and emotional impact. Fully mature, profoundly graceful and a rare chance to experience Noval’s deep history in the glass - this is a once-in-a-generation wine.

Grape varieties: Traditional Douro field blend (Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz and others)

Style: Vintage Port

Drink window: Now–2040+

Perfect for: Blue cheese, walnut torte, dark chocolate, special-occasion sipping, milestone celebrations, sharing with true Port lovers

99 points - Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

19.5/20 - Jancis Robinson MW

98 points -  Stephen Tanzer

A breathtakingly refined Vintage Port from an all-time classic year - a piece of liquid history.

*Please be aware that with all vintage ports (and older wines), the natural corks may crumble if using a regular corkscrew. Please use proper uncorking tools and exercise caution.  Sediment will settle in the bottle over time, therefore decanting the port prior to serving will remove this deposit. Don't hesitate to get in touch if you require further assistance or advice.