For The Love Of Port

Not a TN as such, but I picked up a couple of these, which are quite pricey LBVs. But similarly to the '99, these are not the blockbuster ports of the main VPs, but curiously light, and mature seeming. Compared to the Quinta da Noval LBVs, these are more akin to modest, mature vintage ports. If it had 1990 on the bottle it would have surpised me less upon opening. Picking up raison, and licquorice notes to the lighter fruit - showing more alchohol and less extract and acid than many a LBV. They are very pleasant, and indeed offer true VP like drinking. But hardly the dramtic ports to which Niepoort seems to be striving, and way behind a number of other LBVs in terms of bang for your buck.

Any others have experience with tese LBVs?

Nick, I've tasted every LBV from Niepoort since their 1995 and I have to admit that with Noval they are my favorite. Niepoort LBV style is not a mold, it can vary a lot from years to years.

Years like 95,96 and 99 have more extraction power and spicy tannins while years like 97,98 and 2000 are showing more finesse and feel more ready to drink now.

I have had the 96 twice and it is probably my second favourite LBV after Warre's traditional.

Derek