Fonseca 1948, decanted 5 hours. Bottled by an unknown UK wine merchant. Stunningly dark brick red colour, 60% opaque. A nose which beautifully melds sweet redcurrant, aniseed and warm baking spices. Just stunning - a nose which can just be sniffed for hours. The balance on the palate is lovely, fulsome dried fruit but a little heat showing. Warm menthol, aniseed and cardamon lozenge on the aftertaste, long aniseed finish. Fabulous! 94/100.
Top 2025: Quevedo 1972 Colheita, b.2024. Just as good as Niepoort 1900!
2026: DR Very Old White, Graham Stone Terraces 2011, Quevedo Branco 1986 b.2026