2011 Fonseca Porto Vintage Port (750ml)

Of the three classic vintages declared in the last decade, 2011 is set to cast a long shadow over 2003 and 2007, re-affirming that this is indeed a golden buying opportunity to secure these superb and rare fortifieds.

Bottled in 2013. Outstanding inky black purple colour with very deep black purple hue that stains the sides of the glass. Nosing results in an intense aromatic sniff of liquorice allsorts, morello cherry and blackberry infused with beautifully integrated fine brandy spirit followed by some vanilla, raisins and spice. Thick, luscious and ultra rich flavours of liquorice, blackberries and morello cherries fully encompass every crevasse of the palate followed by some fine old brandy spirit, subtle raisins and spice. Dry finish. The wines outstanding power and concentration are perfectly counterpointed by firm seemingly assertive tannins that provide some grip yet are obscured by the Port's overwhelming richness and density. Exceptionally long liquorice, blackberry, morello cherry, raisins, fine brandy spirit and spice aftertaste.
Cellar 20-30 years plus (2024 - 2034)
Alc 20%

Other Reviews... The Fonseca 2011 is typically more forthcoming on the nose compared to the bashful Croft: a strident bouquet with lifted scents of freshly picked blackberries, kirsch, crushed stone and a dash of Hoi Sin and oyster sauce. It is very well-defined, very focused and direct. The palate is silky smooth with not a rough edge in sight, though not a typically voluptuous Fonseca because of the keen thread of acidity and the structure that lends this mighty Port wonderful backbone. A slight viscosity on the finish lacquers the tongue and indicates a core of sweet fruit is ticking away underneath that will surely explode several years after bottling. A tincture of salted licorice on the aftertaste is very attractive. This will turn out to become an outstanding Fonseca, the growing season taming its exuberance with spectacular results. So much potential, but just 6,000 cases were produced. Tasted May 2013.
97-99 points - Neal Martin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

Massive, concentrated and powerful, this offers lush, heady flavors of dark plum, blackberry and cherry tart, with touches of anise. Shows plenty of grip as well, featuring a long, rich finish of dark chocolate, toffee and cream. Best from 2040 through 2060. From Portugal.
 -K.M. 98 points - Wine Specatator