NV Fonseca Bin 27 Port -- Reserve Ruby

[Andy Velebil]

It's been a number of years since I last had this and I thought it time I revisit an old favorite. While I fully admit I wasn't a big fan of this Port after they made a stylistic change a number of years ago, this bottle has me rethinking that. At the time the new blend tended to show a lot of heat, which was a turn off for me. Yet this bottle no longer has that overt hot streak. Showing more restained bright red fruit than some others in this class, it has a subtleness that sneaks up and gradually gains momentum as it transitions to a soft berry finish. Soft tannins are still noticable but I like how they don't dominate the fruit, leaving a nicely balanced Port. As I mentioned, this slowly gains momentum and the finish has some well placed strawberries which linger long afterwards. I'm glad to see this Port returning to it's former glory. 88 Points
5/2/10

[John M.]

I like this one too as an everydayer--we did a taste off in 11/09 of this versus Six Grapes and Bin 27 was the winner. Your TN is similar to mine except the finish was short (actually noted I wish the finish was longer) and the points were 16/20, which is more like a 95-96 (seems a little high--but that what the notes say). Did decant for 4-6 hours prior to tasting.

[Andy Velebil]

Thanks John,
This one was popped and poured and I'll be adding this back into my rotation of good priced Reserve Rubies.