Fonseca Vintage 1997

The winter and spring of 1997 were relatively warm and dry.
In February and March, higher than normal temperatures caused the early appearance of shoots and the formation of berries, in all the vines, was very good.
From flowering until September, there were frequent rains, which meant that the initial advance of the season ended up being attenuated and gave way to a more gradual period of maturation. The weather during the harvest was extremely hot and extra effort was necessary to prolong the fermentations. Yields, however, were approximately minus 30%. The high quality of the wines was evident from the beginning, due to the intensity of the must, the good integration of the brandy and the powerful and attractive aromas.

Tasting Note:

An attractive perfumed, elegant and complex nose; aromas of raspberries and fresh wild fruits. A very elegant, delicate and complete wine. Touches of tobacco and cedar wood - enormous depth. Rich and lovely fruit and huge tannins. Long ending.

Press Comments:

“Fonseca '97 from Guimaraens is one of the most elegant wines of the harvest. It is a fabulous young port, with impressive aromas of licorice, tar and wild fruits, immense dense and chewy tannins and a long finish. ( James Suckling. The Wine Spectator, July 1999, 95-100 points)

“…this dark wine, ruby/purple in color, offers a floral, exotic, ostentatious bouquet, in addition to a sweet and 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 a fine concentration of sweet flavors of black fruit and chocolate. He’s a typical Fonseca, with an iron fist under a velvet glove.” ( Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, February 2001 – 96 points ).