1985 Fonseca or Graham?

[David Sweet]

Thinking about opening one of these on Christmas. Anyone had one of these recently?

[Lamont Huxley]

I've had them both within the past couple of years and although they're both awesome ports, I found the Graham's to definitely be more evolved at this point. The Fonseca is still amazingly primary at 25 years old. I'd go for the Graham's but that's obviously just my

[Derek T.]

With no hesitation I would recommend drinking the Graham and keeping thre Fonseca, unless you have lots of both, in which case open one of each

[Glenn E.]

I agree - the Graham is fabulous right now. The Fonseca needs more time. If you do choose to open the Fonseca, make sure you give it a good 8+ hours of decant time. 12 probably wouldn't hurt.

[Derek T.]

David,

My earlier advice was slightly tongue-in-cheek but having given it more thought I would like to make a serious suggestion.

If you do have both of these available you could open and decant both about 4 hours before you plan to drink them but then return half of each into clean half bottles and put them into your refridgerator. You can then taste both wines together and find out for yourself if the advice you are getting here is accurate for your taste.

The two halves in the fridge will keep for New Year's eve

Derek

[David Sweet]

Many thanks all!!

You saved me from a possible big mistake--Graham's it is.

Happy holidays to all!!

[Roy Hersh]

David,

Graham's is definitely the right way to go. The Fonseca (imo) is the better VP, but as Glenn mentioned, it really needs a ton of decanting to show at its best today. The Graham's is far more approachable right now and will be a great blast of berry goodness, also quite young and if not decanted for six hours or so, will show a good dose of spirit. It is luscious though and you will enjoy it tremendously! I hope your bottle shows really well for you and yours.

[David Sweet]

Thanks a million Roy!!

[Roy Hersh]

Hey, please let us know your impressions.