Chateau Fonplegade Saint Emilion Grand Cru 2017

Winemaker Notes:

With an impeccable balance between fruit, complexity and aromatic length, this wine is characterized by a sophisticated minerality, consistent from year to year, with soft and supple tannins and a velvety texture. It is made from the estate's oldest vines, meticulously hand-farmed using organic and biodynamic practices to bring out the finest quality in each cluster. Predominantly Merlot, the blend includes just enough Cabernet Franc to imbue the wine with an elegant tannic structure.

Critical Acclaim:

93 Points, Wine Spectator

Open-knit, with light anise, tea and cinnamon hints leading off, followed by gently mulled cherry and plum fruit. Lively acidity is embedded on the finish.

93 Points, James Suckling

Some smoky, graphite and gunflint notes here with tobacco and light beef bouillon, as well as red plums and dark cherries. The palate has a very smooth and plush bed of ripe tannin, carrying rich red-plum flavors, amid a chalky, layered tannin bed. Drink or hold.

93 Points, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Blended of 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, the deep garnet-purple colored 2017 Fonplegade rolls out of the glass with pronounced notes of plum preserves, baked black cherries and mulberries plus hints of damp soil, cedar chest, new leather and fried herbs. Medium-bodied, the palate is soft-spoken and elegantly played with soft, well-managed tannins and lovely freshness, finishing earthy. Rating: 93+

2017 Bordeaux / bordeaux / Chateau Fonplegade / France / merlot / saint-emilion