Fonseca Port, 1961

Guimaraens Vintage Port
Library release from Fonseca cellars Oporto

Description and Reviews:
Rare Bottles of Fonseca Single Quinta Vintage Port obtained directly from the Fonseca Cellars in Oporto

Vintage & Background
The Guimaraens Vintage Port is traditionally bottled in years that are not widely declared, giving Fonseca an opportunity to showcase the house style from excellent harvests that fall outside the classic declarations. 1961 was one such year. While not a universally declared vintage, the conditions in the Douro produced powerful, ageworthy wines. This bottling, released directly from Fonseca’s Oporto cellars as a library release, offers both impeccable provenance and a rare glimpse into the house’s mid-20th century production.

Appearance & Nose
After more than six decades in bottle, the colour has evolved to a deep tawny core with a halo of amber at the rim. The nose is evocative, with lifted aromas of figs, dates, and dried cherries, supported by classic Fonseca spice, hints of cocoa, tobacco leaf, and fragrant eucalyptus. Subtle notes of balsamic, cedar, and roasted nuts add complexity as the wine opens in the glass.

Palate & Texture
On the palate the wine remains rich and full, though beautifully softened by age. Layers of dried fruit—raisin, fig, black cherry—combine with chocolate, coffee, and warm spice. Fonseca’s hallmark opulence is evident, tempered by a savoury edge and a long, silky texture. The tannins have melted into the wine, while a gentle acidity provides lift, leading into a resonant, warming finish with echoes of liquorice, spice and nutty sweetness.

Maturity & Drinking Window
This 1961 Guimaraens is now fully mature, at its peak of complexity. Thanks to its release from Fonseca’s own cellars, bottles benefit from exceptional storage conditions, ensuring freshness and balance. While capable of further ageing, it is best enjoyed over the coming years to capture the harmony of fruit, spice, and evolved character.

Food Pairing & Serving Suggestions
Serve lightly cool, around 15–16 °C, and decant gently to remove sediment. Ideal pairings include strong blue cheeses such as Stilton, rich chocolate desserts, roasted nuts, or enjoyed as a meditative glass by itself after a meal.

Overall Impression & Verdict
Fonseca’s 1961 Guimaraens Vintage Port is a wine of remarkable depth, elegance, and authenticity. Combining the lush, fruit-driven power of the house style with six decades of graceful evolution, it stands as both a rare treasure and a testament to Fonseca’s mastery. With impeccable provenance as a library release, it offers not just a glass of Port, but a piece of history.


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