Château de Fonbel 2022
Château de Fonbel is a unique property in Saint-Émilion, closely followed by the Vauthier family since 1971. Located south of the village, this 16-hectare estate lies in the Saint-Émilion plain, on a mosaic of clay-sandy, gravelly, and sandy soils. This geological diversity allows the production of a wine with a supple, fruity, and elegant profile, expressing itself more immediately than the most monumental grand crus of the appellation. Fonbel is often presented as a true experimental ground for the Vauthier universe, with a demand for precision both in the vineyard and in the cellar. The vineyard hosts several Bordeaux grape varieties, including Carménère, a rare and precious presence that adds a distinctive spicy touch. The 2022 vintage, sunny and generous in Bordeaux, yields here a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru that is both ripe, flavorful, and well-structured. Château de Fonbel 2022 thus embodies a very fine entry point into the Vauthier style, combining terroir seriousness, fruit indulgence, and accessible elegance.
The Château de Fonbel 2022 cuvée is based on a blend dominated by Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon and a touch of Carménère. The predominantly Merlot brings fleshiness, smoothness, and aromas of ripe black fruits that define the wine's identity. Cabernet Sauvignon strengthens the structure, tannic freshness, and mouthfeel, while Carménère adds spicy, licorice, and slightly peppery nuances. The 2022 harvest took place between September 15 and 28 depending on the grape varieties, with Merlots harvested first, followed by Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon. Vinification and aging combine stainless steel tanks and 30% barrels to preserve the fruit's clarity while adding depth. This approach produces a wine less marked by wood than by freshness, sapidity, and fruit precision. In this vintage, Fonbel offers a generous yet balanced expression, with ripe matter, integrated tannins, and beautiful mouth energy.
In the glass, Château de Fonbel 2022 reveals a deep robe with ruby and purple reflections, announcing a still young but already expressive wine. The nose opens on black cherry, blackberry, plum, and blackcurrant, with nuances of violet, licorice, sweet spices, and a hint of graphite. The palate is ample without excess, carried by juicy fruit, a velvety texture, and present but well-integrated tannins. The 2022 vintage brings density and beautiful maturity while maintaining the freshness necessary for balance. The finish extends the wine on notes of black fruits, spices, and licorice, with a savory and slightly saline sensation. This Saint-Émilion Grand Cru can be enjoyed young after aeration but will gain complexity after a few years of aging. It will perfectly accompany veal chop with mushrooms, duck breast, grilled rib steak, roasted lamb, confit vegetables, or aged cheese.
Grape varieties: 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Carménère
