2011 de Fonbel
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Tasting notes
Another St.-Emilion estate owned by the Vauthier family, the 2011 Fonbel is a straightforward, easygoing, fruity wine displaying a dark ruby color along with abundant cherry and spice notes. The finish displays slightly tangy acids. Drink it over the next 6-7 years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
63% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot, 7% Carmenère. Fragrant, a little floral even and a touch of cedar. Very sweet red fruit and juicy freshness. Much more approachable than the Simard. Lively and bright. (JH)
With the highest concentration of Petit Verdot in St. Emilion, as well as the largest plantings of Carmenere in the Right Bank, the assemblage is 63% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot and 7% Carmenere. The wine will be aged in 30% new oak. With spice, floral, earth and dark cherry scents, this medium-bodied wine ends with soft red berry flavors. theWineCellarInsider.com
A white with lots of citrus and mineral character and plums too. Medium body, with a solid density and a medium finish. jamessuckling.com
About the producer
Owned by the same family as Ch. Ausone, Ch. de Fonbel is one of the best-value Saint-Emilion estates. It has a long history stretching back to the Roman era, however its story really begins when Alain Vauthier purchased the property in 1971.