1997 Fonseca. Very dark red with a hint of brick on the colour, opaque with a narrow rim. A touch of baked, slightly earthy fruit on the nose. The fruit on the palate is a little baked black cherry with gentle tannins supporting. Nice levels of acidity balance the sweetness and provide a good grip on the aftertaste. Lingering finish, of black cherry and dark chocolate. Enjoyable, but very much the junior sibling to the 1994. 89/100.
Top 2025: Quevedo 1972 Colheita, b.2024. Just as good as Niepoort 1900!