2003 Fonseca

[Alex Bridgeman]

Deep red, just starting to show some hints of bricking; opaque with a narrow rim that is transparent but slightly cloudy. There is a lovely nose of baked blackcurrant jam that is very attractive. Soft smooth new cotton sheet texture on entry with a languid flavour development on the palate that eventually deigns to reveal round ripe fruit, smooth chalky tannnins and focused acidity. The combination is rather powerful and delivers a huge mouthful that has a good freshness to it. There is a burn on the aftertaste before a long and very fragrant fruit flavoured finish. This is really impressive but will reward more cellar time. 94/100. Drunk 23-Apr-15.