The dark, almost black color and the wonderful violet aromas set the scene for this complex, dense and textured wine. It has a touch of spice, along with the rich plum and dark berry fruits. While it is rich, it is also a dry style of Vintage, bringing out structure as much as opulence. Drink from 2030.

This is one of the few vintage Ports declared in 2012 and it's wonderfully structured with finesse. It's black-colored and shows intense aromas of crushed grapes, granite stones, flowers, light raisins, tar and licorice. Full body, lightly sweet and incredible integrity plus firm and ultra-refined tannins. Beautiful grip and length. Reminds me of the 1964, which is a classic now.

A grippy style, with lots of tobacco and charcoal notes coursing along the edges of the core of plum, black currant and fig paste flavors. Slightly chunky in feel, but the power and depth is there, revealing a swath of warm ganache on the finish.-Non-blind Quinta do Noval vertical (May 2018). Best from 2025 through 2040. 1,000 cases made, 250 cases imported.

The 2012 Vintage Port is part of our mini-vertical this issue. Since this was last seen, it has come along beautifully. It is actually richer, lusher and more seductive than the 2011, which focuses on power, while still showing admirable mid-palate finesse. That said, it really isn't as concentrated, and it certainly is not as well structured. It is still an unusually sexy Noval with a hedonistic overlay. It is pretty approachable. You may not conclude it is the best of the group, but everyone's going to adore it.