1997 Fonseca
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Tasting notes
Slightly dull purple. Raw nose. Very sweet at first then very very dry, rasping tannins on the finish. A very youthful, unformed wine which may develop into something special but is very difficult to judge at present. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Black purple. Much softer and gentler than the Taylor's. Spice, tannins. A big 'un. Fleshy. (JR)
Full saturated ruby. Inky, brooding aromas of syrupy black fruits and violet. Dense, thick and tactile, with superb depth of flavor and compelling juicy sweetness. Finishes with powerful tannins and superb grip. Not as flamboyantly aromatic as this wine normally is in its youth, but structured for long, slow development in bottle.
Somewhat of a lightweight for Fonseca, but undeniably charming, this dark ruby/purple-colored wine offers a floral, exotic, flamboyant bouquet, a sweet, fleshy style, but not a great deal of weight or massiveness. Heady alcohol, sweet tannin, and a velvety texture make for a gorgeous finish. While I would have preferred to have seen more weight, structure, and intensity, this is an outstanding, albeit lighter than normal Fonseca. Anticipated maturity: now-2020. Importer: Kobrand Corp., New York, NY; tel. (212) 490-9300