Fonseca Vintage 1997

The winter and spring of 1997 were relatively warm and dry.
In February and March, higher-than-normal temperatures brought early budburst, and fruit set in all the vineyards was very good.
From flowering until September there was frequent rain, which tempered the season's early start and led to a more gradual ripening period. The weather during harvest was extremely hot and extra effort was needed to prolong fermentations. Yields, however, were about 30% lower. The high quality of the wines was clear from the start, in the intensity of the must, the good integration of the grape spirit and the powerful, attractive aromas.

Tasting Note:

An attractive perfumed, elegant and complex nose; aromas of raspberries and fresh wild berries. A very elegant, delicate and complete wine. Touches of tobacco and cedarwood — enormous depth. Rich, charming fruit and huge tannins. Long finish.

Press Comments:

“Guimaraens's Fonseca '97 is one of the most elegant wines of the vintage. It's a fabulous young Port, with impressive aromas of liquorice, tar and wild berries, huge dense, chewy tannins and a long finish. (James Suckling. The Wine Spectator, July 1999, 95-100 points).

“…this dark ruby/purple wine offers a floral, exotic, showy bouquet, along with a sweet, fleshy style; but not great weight or massiveness. Prominent alcohol, sweet tannins and a velvety texture work towards a beautiful finish.” (Robert Parker, The World's Greatest Wine Estates, 2005 – 93 points)

“Elegantly sweet, opulent fruit, with fine concentration of sweet black-fruit and chocolate flavours. It's a typical Fonseca, an iron fist in a velvet glove.” (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, February 2001 – 96 points).