Fonseca was founded in 1822 by Manuel Pedro Guimaraens, and though today the firm is owned by Fladgate, it is still run by a descendant of the founder, David Guimaraens. According to Robert M. Parker Jr., Fonseca matures slightly more rapidly than other Vintage Ports and Parker maintains that Fonseca has a unique character. “This is always the most flamboyant, exuberant, and exotic of Vintage Port, with a character that is completely different from that of its peers,” Parker says. With about 150 acres of vineyards planted in traditional Port grapes, including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cao and other, Fonseca produces 8,000-14,000 cases of Vintage Port a year. It also produces a Tawny, a white Port and non-vintage Ports.