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Added on 15-08-2007
Oil on Spanish handmade Flax paper: this portrait depicts one of the fine and noble pigs who inhabit the famed 'Nacional' vineyard at Quinta do Noval.
Passage from 'Day 4' - Quinta do Noval Harvest Diary: 'At the apex of Noval's epicurean pyramid sit three magnificent beasts: fine and noble pigs whose residence within the Nacional vineyard stimulates much respectful interest among visiting wine professionals. Each of these portly Porcos is handsome; their bristled coats, taught pink bodies and grey-black markings distinguishing them as very fine swine indeed. I am unclear as to how long pigs have lived among these ancient vines, but perhaps they too are pre-phylloxera like many of their motionless neighbours. How many pigs can claim to live within such a hallowed sanctuary and just how many receive such devoted care and attention during their short time on earth?
Quinta do Noval pigs take the air twice a day, once in the morning around 8.30am and again at the end of the afternoon. Blissfully happy rooting around on this elevated balcony, with a glorious view across the valley, their snortling and drain like grunting reverberates on the still morning air. Treated with gentle respect they enjoy a splendid existence housed in their deluxe sty high in the Nacional vines. This form of compassionate farming is seldom seen and though their fate is predetermined, the thoughtfulness of their temporary guardians sets a fine example to piggy proprietors elsewhere'.
