Description and Reviews:
The 1985 Fonseca is a benchmark vintage Port from one of the Douro’s most esteemed producers. Widely regarded as one of the top Ports of the excellent 1985 vintage, it showcases Fonseca’s trademark richness, flamboyant fruit, and long ageing potential. Now nearing 40 years of age, the wine is in a glorious stage of maturity, offering both power and finesse in equal measure.
On the nose, the wine is intensely aromatic, with layers of black cherry, fig, and plum compote, interwoven with dark chocolate, licorice, and exotic spice. Subtle notes of violets, cigar box, and walnut emerge with air, reflecting both its noble origin and extended bottle age. The bouquet is deep and sensual, yet still vibrant — a classic hallmark of Fonseca’s opulent style.
The palate is full-bodied and silky, with a dense core of sweet black fruit, damson, and date, underpinned by lively acidity and a velvety tannic grip that still shows some backbone. Secondary flavours of mocha, clove, and dried fruits unfold slowly, giving the wine exceptional length and complexity. The finish is expansive, warm, and harmonious, lingering with flavours of spice, dark fruit, and toasted nuts.
This vintage is drinking beautifully now but still has a long future ahead, with top bottles showing well into the 2040s. Decant for at least two hours to allow sediment to settle and the wine to express its full character. Perfect with blue cheeses, dark chocolate desserts, or simply on its own as a contemplative after-dinner drink.
