1970 Fonseca

[AHB]

F70, magnum: to test the hypothesis that coffee filters damage port, one third was decanted free-hand, one third through muslin, and one third through coffee filter. The freehand was very obvious to me, the small fragment of cork floating in the juice being a clue. Overall, very excellent port, very dark red, 60% opaque, thick gooey plum port of mid sweetness. Freehand was the smoothest, muslin slightly more bitter, and coffee filter slightly hotter. The differences were small, and such that at least one esteemed person present mis-guessed. — JDAW.

[AHB]

From another person who was present, came this description of the wine:

A magnum, decanted 3 ways (free-hand, through unbleached cheesecloth and through unbleached coffee filter paper). Deep red , dark and opaque with a solid rim. Dusty raspberries on the nose, which is full and well developed although perhaps slightly closed. Rich fruit dominates the palate, which is massively fruity and has tremendous complexity. Perfect structural components give an immaculately balanced wine. Slightly dry finish of dry cherry stones, long and with lovely length. A fabulous, sweet and concentrated wine. 96/100. 11-Jun-12. Decanted 4½ hours.