2025 de Fonbel
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2025 Château de Fonbel was picked between 9 and 23 September, and this year the blend includes 5% Carmenère. It has a light, brambly nose with redcurrant and cranberry, a little tertiary in style. The palate is medium-bodied, with soft tannins on entry, a little leathery, and it just needs to muster a little more brightness on the finish. I will be prudent with my assessment for now.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Checking in as a blend of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% each of Cabernet Franc and Carménère that's resting in one-third barrels with the rest in tank, the 2025 Château De Fonbel is showing beautifully with ripe red and black fruits as well as peppery herbs, tobacco, and graphite on the nose. It's ripe, round, and supple, with fine-grained tannins, medium body, and a good finish.
The 2025 De Fonbel is deep, fleshy and super expressive. The Cabernets play an important role in this year's blend. That comes through in the wine's aromatic profile and structural feel. There's a lot to like.
Youthfully primary aromas of blackberries and cassis introduce the 2025 Fonbel, a medium-bodied, bright and vibrant wine that belies the heat of the vintage.
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.