Château de Fonbel, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux, France, 2020

Overview of the Wine
The history of Château de Fonbel refers to the Vauthier family. This wonderful vintage, nestled near the medieval town of Saint Emilion is one of three properties managed by Alain and Pauline Vauthier who work every day to produce exceptional wines.

The vineyard of Château de Fonbel is located in the plain of Saint-Emilion, installed on some 16 hectares. The soils are sandy-gravelly and 4 grape varieties coexist here: Merlot (60%), Cabernet Sauvignon (52%), Petit Verdot (10%) and Carmenère (5%). Alain Vauthier and his daughter Pauline (Châteaux Ausone and Moulin St.-Georges) have significantly raised the level of this property using the same methods as for Château Ausone. They put all their expertise in this property to achieve a very large Saint Emilion Grand Cru. The average age of the vines in the vineyard is 20 years and the harvest is done manually. The fermentation takes place in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats and the aging takes place in barrels of which 30% are new for 12 months.

Organic.

Grape / Blend
65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Carmenère

Origin
Bordeaux, France

Tasting Notes
Located in the heart of the Saint-Emilion appellation, the domain of Château de Fonbel is owned by the Vauthier family, also owners of the prestigious Château Ausone. Beautiful (still affordable) Grandcru Saint Emilion. A very good St.-Emilion Grandcru with notes of cedar, roasted herbs, lavender, black cherries and spices. The wine was aged in oak for 20 months. Some southern Rhone-like aromatics can be found in this wine. However, on the palate the wine is a classic Bordeaux, with moderate tannins, medium bodied and good freshness and precision. Drink it for the next 15 years.

93 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
The 2020 Château De Fonbel is based on 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Carmenère, coming from more sandy, gravelly soils. This deep ruby-hued effort offers a terrific bouquet of red and black currants, leafy tobacco, sandalwood, and graphite, and it's medium to full-bodied, has a supple, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and outstanding length. It's surprisingly accessible yet is going to have 15 years of prime drinking, possibly more.

92 Points - James Suckling
A juicy and fruity red with plums, ripe cherries and ash. Medium body. Delicious fruit and a soft and fruity finish. Drink now or hold.

Product size: 750ml