2020 Fontenil Fronsac
Grape
Merlot
Its Origins
An 8.5 hectare property that was established in 1986 when renowned husband and wife oenologists Michel and Dany Rolland purchased several neighbouring vineyard plots in Fronsac in the Libournaise. Fontenil was the lieu-dit of one of these plots and became the name for the new estate. It is situated in the commune of Saillans and overlooks the River Isle and the picturesque town of Libourne. The vineyards (85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon) are predominantly south-facing and planted on soils rich in sandstone, limestone and clay. The grapes are hand harvested at optimum ripeness and are totally destemmed before being fermented in temperature-controlled, stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged in oak barriques (75% new) for 18 months. It is bottled unfiltered. (BBR)
What The Critics Say
94/100 Wine Cellar Insider, Jeff Leve
"Dark in color, the wine pops with notes of crushed stone, smoke, flowers, licorice, plums and black cherries. Silky in texture, with layers of fresh, sweet, ripe, polished cherries and dark cocoa. The wine is incredibly seductive. You can enjoy this on release, but it will be even better with a few years of age."
92-94+/100 Parker's Wine Advocate, Lisa Perrotti-Brown
"Opaque purple-black in color, the 2020 Fontenil needs a little swirling and coaxing to release opulent scents of plum preserves, blueberry compote and chocolate-covered cherries, plus suggestions of candied violets, ground cloves and fertile loam. The full-bodied palate is rich with generous black and blue preserves layers, supported by beautifully plush tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing long and fragrant." Drink 2024 - 2042
91-93+ Antonio Galloni Vinous
The 2020 Fontenil is really impressive. There is plenty of the richness that is such a Fontenil signature, but also a bit more energy than in the past. Succulent red cherry and plum fruit opens first, followed by cedar, licorice, dried herbs and rose petals that add nuance. All the elements come together well.
Variety | Merlot |
---|---|
Closure | Cork |
Volume | 750ml |
Maturity | 2024 - 2042 |
This Wine Goes Well With
Taste
We deliver throughout New Zealand and to some locations overseas. Our deliveries are made by trusted third party carriers. For further details on prices and delivery options please go to DELIVERY INFORMATION section of our site.
If for any reason you are not entirely happy with your order or you suspect that they may be affected by a quality issue, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will remedy the problem straight away. Contact us on 0800 422 767.
-
2021 Man O' War Waiheke Ironclad Merlot CabernetsBob Campbell MW$53.99 in mixed 6+ or $59.99 per bottle
-
2019 Squawking Magpie Gimblett Gravels The Nest Merlot/CabernetAndrew Caillard MW$49.99 in mixed 6+ or $55.99 per bottle