Tasting Notes

97
Robert Parker Wine Advocate Neal Martin - 28 Jun 13
Now with a couple years in bottle, I am erring to the Taylor’s over the Fonseca (although these can always change!) The Taylor’s show more delineation and refinement with pure black currant, cassis, pencil box, hints of marzipan and a hint of dark chocolate. The palate is full-bodied and sumptuous with super-fine tannins, very pure blackberry and boysenberry notes interlaced with cedar, dried fig and a touch of black pepper on the beautifully refined finish. Excellent.
Drinking Date:
93
Vinous Stephen Tanzer - 01 Nov 12
Saturated deep ruby. Very ripe, expressive nose offers cassis, black cherry, licorice and exotic herbs. Hugely rich, thick and powerful in the context of the vintage, but with lovely purity and a saline complexity to the flavors of crushed black cherry and boysenberry. This will need some time in bottle to harmonize its brandy but has the spine for a slow and graceful evolution in bottle.
Drinking Date:
18
Jancis Robinson Jancis Robinson - 06 May 11
Blackish purple. This, unusually, had the headiness of Fonseca 2009 on the nose and seemed more luscious and velvety than the Quinta da Vargellas Vinha Velha on the palate. Very rich, round and thrilling. Dense and pure. A bit of a schoolmaster in terms of straight back and firm structure. Very long, firm and thrilling – surely a long term bet with additional early charm, presumably from the exceptionally hot, dry vintage. (JR)
Drinking Date: 2035 - 2070
Portugal Fine Wine and Fortified Port

Portugal

Portugal is a treasure trove of indigenous grapes, ancient traditions and modern confidence. From the schistous slopes of the Douro to the breezy Atlantic coast, the wines offer freshness, texture and authenticity. Expect structured reds, mineral whites, and of course, Port – but also thrilling lesser-known finds from regions like Dão, Bairrada and Alentejo. A rich, expressive and hugely rewarding wine culture.