London – Bonhams will offer what is thought to be one of the last remaining complete cases of Quinta do Noval Nacional 1963, which is one of the world's most highly prized Ports, in its Fine & Rare Wine auction running online from the 26 September-5 October. The case is offered with an estimate of £25,000-35,000.

The Nacional Vintage is sold in very small quantities and is only made in selected years when the greatness of the wine is indisputable, only 200-300 cases are ever produced in a "declared" vintage. This exclusivity reflects its exceptional quality and rarity adding to the wine's allure as one of the most sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Richard Mayson, author of Port and the Douro and one of the leading authorities on fortified wines and the wines of Portugal notes, "It is not very often that any of us get to taste, let alone drink, Quinta do Noval Nacional Vintage Port. This 1963 vintage is the epitome of vintage Port and even more remarkable due to its stature and rarity.

"Glorious colour, still fresh with classic floral aromas and bitter-sweet, dark chocolate intensity at its core. The finish is long and lithe. This vintage is still youthful with a wonderful wild side to its personality", continues Mayson.

Richard Harvey, Bonhams Senior International Director of Wine and Master of Wine comments, "We are delighted to be offering such an incredibly rare and sought-after Port and with an excellent provenance. Our vendor has a background in the wine trade and has exceptional judgement and experience. The Quinta do Noval Nacional 1963 is legendary and a very special wine indeed."

With its deep, luscious flavours often characterised by notes of dark fruits, spices, and nuts and its versatility in food pairing possibilities, Port provides a perfect companion to autumn and the festive season. In addition to the Quinta do Noval Nacional 1963, a selection of other Vintage Ports will be offered also from the same year, including complete cases (a dozen bottles) of Taylor and Graham.

Another great companion for festivities, the sale also features a selection of very rare champagnes, including from a Cambridge College cellar dating from the 1950s and 1960s, as well as a wide choice of more recent vintages of Bollinger, Louis Roederer, Krug and Dom Perignon.

Other highlights perfect for the autumn and festive season include a selection of impressive Burgundies, Bordeaux, Champagnes and Port:

• Côte-Rôtie, La Mouline, 2005, E. Guigal, 1 dozen bottles. Estimate: £5,000-6,000.

• Salon Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs 2007, six bottles. Estimate: £4,200-4,800.

• Chambertin-Clos de Bèze 2010, Louis Jadot, six bottles. Estimate: £1,600-1,800.

• Taylor 1963, UK, Hedges & Butler, 1 dozen bottles. Estimate: £1,300-1,500.

• Château Ducru-Beaucaillou 1982, St Julien 2me Cru Classé, 1 dozen bottles, Estimate: £2,500-3,000.

20 September 2023