🏰 The 1996 Quinta do Noval Nacional Vintage Port stands as a testament to exceptional winemaking in a year when most Port houses did not declare a vintage. The Douro Valley's growing season in 1996 was varied, but the ungrafted Nacional vines, resistant to phylloxera, yielded a different story, leading Quinta do Noval to declare Nacional as a "single quinta" vintage. This makes the 1996 Nacional a rare and highly sought-after bottling. It is described as being very dry in style, with a grippy alder spine carrying notes of bitter plum, black currant, and juniper, along with wild herb and violet notes. It's still very primary in flavors, incredibly smooth, and seamless, with a stunningly complex and bottomless nose of cassis, black cherries, tar, cigar ash, and dark soil tones. 【A rare "single quinta" vintage from ungrafted Nacional vines in a non-declared year】. For a wine of this age, the cork may be fragile, and the capsule might show signs of age. Handle the bottle gently to avoid disturbing any sediment. Serving an old Vintage Port is a special occasion, and a little care goes a long way. Serving Advice: This 1996 Vintage Port should be served slightly below room temperature, ideally between 60°F to 64°F (16°C to 18°C). Decanting is essential to separate the wine from its natural sediment and allow its complex aromas to fully express themselves. For wines less than 40 years old, decant two to three hours before drinking. For wines older than 40 years, 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient. Gently pour the wine into a clean decanter, stopping when sediment appears at the bottle neck. Older wines tend to be more fragile and should be enjoyed within a day or two of opening. 🍴 A young to mature full-bodied Vintage Port pairs well with dark chocolate or strong blue cheeses like Stilton. However, older, more elegant and nuanced Vintage Ports like this 1996 Nacional often need no accompaniment and should be savored on their own. 🥂 This is a wine for momentous celebrations, significant anniversaries, or a contemplative evening among connoisseurs. Its rarity and complexity make it ideal for a special tasting event, offering a glimpse into a unique vintage from a legendary producer.