Fonseca Vintage Port 2017

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1815, Fonseca is one of the most esteemed Port houses in Portugal’s Douro Valley. Renowned for its commitment to quality, Fonseca has been instrumental in producing exceptional Ports that reflect the rich heritage of the region. The house is particularly noted for its vintage Ports, which are celebrated for their depth and longevity. Fonseca’s dedication to sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking techniques has solidified its reputation as a leader in the Port industry.

Producer and Winemaker

Fonseca’s winemaking team is led by David Guimaraens, a sixth-generation winemaker whose family has been associated with the company since its inception. David’s expertise and passion for Port wine are evident in the meticulous crafting of each blend. He oversees the entire production process, from vineyard management to final bottling, ensuring that each wine upholds Fonseca’s high standards. His approach combines traditional methods with modern innovations, resulting in Ports that are both classic and contemporary.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The grapes for Fonseca’s 2017 Vintage Port are sourced from three of the house’s own quintas: Cruzeiro, Santo António, and Panascal. These estates are located in the Cima Corgo and Douro Superior sub-regions of the Douro Valley, areas known for their steep, terraced vineyards and schist soils. The 2017 growing season was marked by a very dry and warm climate, leading to early harvests and grapes with exceptional concentration and depth.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2017 Vintage Port is a field blend of traditional Portuguese grape varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão. After harvesting, the grapes are fermented with the addition of grape spirit to halt fermentation and preserve natural sugars. The wine is then aged for approximately 20 months in large oak vats before bottling. This process allows the wine to develop its complex flavors and structure while retaining its vibrant fruit character.

Tasting Notes

The 2017 Fonseca Vintage Port exhibits a deep purple-black hue with a narrow magenta rim. On the nose, it offers an explosion of dense, juicy berries, mixed with fresher red berry aromas, balsamic notes, cedar, and a schist-like minerality. The palate is dense and tightly wound, showcasing a stunning concentration of dark berry fruits that lead into a nearly eternal finish. The texture is round and velvety, supported by vibrant acidity and taut tannins that provide firmness and structure. This wine is layered, complex, and powerful, embodying the classic Fonseca style.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Vintage Port pairs beautifully with rich, flavorful dishes. Consider serving it alongside blue cheeses like Stilton or Roquefort, which complement the wine’s sweetness and structure. It also pairs well with dark chocolate desserts, such as flourless chocolate cake or chocolate truffles. For a savory option, try it with roasted or grilled meats, particularly those with a sweet or spicy glaze. The wine’s complexity and depth make it a versatile companion to a variety of robust flavors.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve this Vintage Port slightly below room temperature, at around 16–18°C (60–64°F), to best appreciate its aromatic complexity and balance. Decanting is recommended to remove any sediment and to allow the wine to breathe, enhancing its bouquet and flavor profile. Use a large, tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the aromas and direct the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate. Once opened, consume within 1–2 days for optimal freshness.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2017 Fonseca Vintage Port is built for long-term aging and will continue to develop complexity over the next several decades. Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature and moderate humidity. Under proper conditions, this wine can age gracefully for 30 to 50 years, evolving to reveal deeper flavors and a more nuanced character.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

A field blend of traditional Douro grape varieties, including:

• Touriga Nacional

• Touriga Franca

• Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo)

• Tinta Barroca

• Tinto Cão

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

20%

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 97

• Wine Advocate (Robert Parker): 96–98

• Wine Enthusiast: 98

• James Suckling: 95

• Vinous: 95