Fonseca Guimaraens 2018

Almost impenetrable purple-black color in the center, with a narrow violet band at the rim. The nose is dense and compact, with impressive depth and structure. The fruit quality is excellent, a delicious blend of red and black fruit aromas mixed with dark chocolate notes, hallmarks of Fonseca vintages. Surrounding this core of powerful, complex fruit is an aura of balsamic and minty aromas. While the nose is sumptuous and seductive, there is an attractive, firm side provided by graphite and a fine minerality.

The first impression on the palate is one of silky smoothness, but the tannins suddenly explode on the palate with assertive pungency and a thread of acidity that runs through the palate to provide lively freshness. There is an abundance of fresh berry fruit flavors that linger through to the long finish. This excellent Guimaraens Vintage exhibits vigor and depth, yet is supple and expressive enough to be drunk early.