The 2017 Fonseca Vintage Port is an exceptional Vintage Port from Portugal's Douro Valley, representing one of the finest declarations of an outstanding modern vintage. Crafted from grapes grown across Fonseca's renowned estates, including Quinta do Panascal, Quinta do Cruzeiro and Quinta de Santo António, it displays the house's signature opulence, concentration and remarkable ageing potential. The nose is intensely aromatic, revealing layers of blackberry, black cherry and wild forest fruits, complemented by notes of violet, cedar, balsamic herbs, dark chocolate and distinctive slate-like minerality.
On the palate, it is full-bodied with powerful yet beautifully refined tannins, vibrant freshness and an incredibly dense, velvety texture, delivering concentrated flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, plum and dark cherry layered with hints of liquorice, cocoa, spice and graphite. The finish is extraordinarily long, structured and impeccably balanced, combining immense power with elegance and precision. Bottled unfiltered after around two years in oak, this Vintage Port will continue to evolve gracefully for decades and should be decanted before serving.
Ben’s Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the great Vintage Ports of the modern era and a must-have for collectors and lovers of world-class fortified wines. While it can be enjoyed now after extended decanting, its true brilliance will emerge with long-term cellaring. Drink from the mid-2030s onwards, or cellar confidently for 30–50 years or more. Ideal with Stilton, Roquefort, walnuts, dried figs, dark chocolate desserts or simply savoured on its own after dinner.
