2024 Château de Fonbel Saint Emilion Grand Cru

Château de Fonbel: heritage and wine-making tradition in Saint-Émilion

Château de Fonbel is located just south of the village of Saint-Émilion, in the heart of Bordeaux's Right Bank. Since 1971, the estate has been owned by the Vauthier family, also known for the legendary Château Ausone. Alain Vauthier is in charge of the vineyard and winemaking. Fonbel's wines are crafted with the same precision as at Ausone, albeit in a more accessible style. The vineyard covers 16 hectares and is cultivated with respect for nature and terroir.

Region, soil and climate: ideal conditions for Merlot

Saint-Émilion is known for its chalky soils, interspersed with clay, sand, and gravel, ideal for Merlot and other Right Bank grapes. Château de Fonbel benefits from this diverse terroir. The climate is temperate continental, with ample winter rainfall and warm, sunny summers that ensure slow, even ripening of the grapes.

Composition and harvest of Château de Fonbel 2024

The 2024 vintage is composed of 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Carmenère, and 5% Petit Verdot. This diversity of grapes creates complexity and a distinctive character. The harvest took place under favorable climatic conditions. Thanks to a warm, dry summer and well-timed rainfall around harvest, ripe, healthy grapes were harvested with excellent aromatic concentration and balanced acidity.

Vinification and maturation in oak barrels

Vinification takes place in temperature-controlled concrete and stainless steel tanks. Each grape variety is vinified separately to optimally express its specific qualities. After alcoholic fermentation, the wine is aged for approximately 14 months in French oak barrels, some of which are new. This aging adds structure, depth, and complexity without overshadowing the fruit.

Tasting notes: Colour, aroma and flavour of Château de Fonbel 2024

The wine displays a deep ruby red color with purple hues. The nose opens with aromas of ripe cherries, blackcurrant, violets, and a hint of bay leaf. On the palate, the attack is smooth, followed by a refined structure with soft tannins and lively acidity. The palate is elegant and balanced, with notes of red fruit, spices, and subtle woody notes. The finish is fresh, medium-long, and inviting.

Ratings : 92-93 James Suckling, 92 Markus del Monego, 92 Jean-Marc Quarin, 90-92 Jeb Dunnuck, 90-91 Alexandre Ma, 90 Decanter, 90 Jane Anson, 90 Falstaff Magazine

Would you like to order Château de Fonbel wines online?

The Château de Fonbel 2024 is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse. If you choose to collect your order, you'll often receive a generous discount. This discount will be visible immediately when you select "Collect" at checkout. We are located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address .

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet for this wine included on the product page. Full reviews from international wine journalists like Parker, Suckling, and Vinous can be viewed via the links next to the image. This service is completely free for our customers.

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Wine and food pairings with Château de Fonbel 2024

• Roasted chicken with thyme and garlic – the spicy notes harmonize with the soft wood influences of the wine.
• Entrecote with green pepper sauce – the juicy meat and spicy sauce complement the texture and freshness.
• Mushroom and Parmesan lasagna – the umami of the mushrooms complements the red fruit and spiciness.
• Ratatouille with Provençal herbs – a plant-based pairing with great depth and aromatic overlap.
• Wild stew with juniper berries and parsnip puree – a powerful combination for the earthy and concentrated character of the wine.
• Ravioli filled with veal ragout and sage – soft textures and spicy notes are beautifully supported by the wine structure.