Robert Parker: 93/100 "A small quinta owned by Quinta do Noval, the 1997 Silval is a splendid effort as well as a sleeper of the vintage. This full-bodied, saturated purple-colored wine displays abundant quantities of chocolate, licorice, and coffee bean notes intertwined with black berry and cassis fruit. Massive in the mouth, with sweet tannin and stunning concentration, this knock-out 1997 should drink well in 3-4 years, and last for two decades or more. Very impressive!"
James Suckling: [Wine Spectator] 91/100 "Impressive berry, violet and grape skin aromas. Full-bodied, with a solid core of silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Well done. Even better than when tasted from barrel. Best after 2006."