2016 Fombrauge

The 2016 Fombrauge has a lovely bouquet of black cherries, raspberry, sandalwood and wild mint aromas, quite complex and nicely detailed and the oak neatly assimilated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity. There is an attractive spiciness on the back palate, and the vibrant, energetic finish keeps you returning for another sip. This is very promising wine from Bernard Magrez's portfolio. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

Tasted blind. Non-flashy for once but very well balanced. Lively and ‘normal’ (unforced). A bit forward perhaps but useful. (JR)

Leafy herbs, black fruits, and damp earth notes all emerge from the 2016 Château Fombrauge, which is 89% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Malbec aged 18 months in 45% new oak. Falling under the Bernard Magrez umbrella, it's a totally charming, forward, medium to full-bodied 2016 that has notable complexity, good (not great) mid-palate depth, no hard edges, and loads of character. Drink it over the coming 10-15 years or so.