Appellations

Fonbel 2011

St Emilion, Grand Cru

GBP Price: Size Quantities Units status Estimated price Actions
£130 per Case Bottle (75cl) 0 - £130 - £160  per Case [Add to waiting list]
Scores:
Robert Parker Jancis Robinson Albany Vintners Wine Spectator Neal Martin Decanter
87 - 89 16 - - 88 - 90 15 - 16
Tasting Notes:

The de Fonbel is a blend of 63% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot and 7% Carmenere that is raised in 30% new oak. It has a natural, undergrowth tinged bouquet that unfurls nicely in the glass and develops a lovely, fresh citrus note with aeration, quite floral in fact. The palate is medium-bodied with strict tannins on the entry. It is well balanced, tightly coiled at the moment but I think this will blossom nicely after bottling as it exhibits fine persistency. Tasted April 2012.

Score: 88 - 90 Neal Martin, erobertparker.com Date: Monday 30 April 2012

A stylish, elegant, understated St.-Emilion, the 2011 Fonbel reveals plenty of dark berry fruit, crushed rock and acacia flower characteristics. This pure effort requires some introspection, but it is a very good, well-made wine. Drink it over the next 10-12 years.

Score: 87 - 89 Robert Parker, Wine Advocate Maturity: 2012-2024 Date: Monday 30 April 2012

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)

Score: 16 Jancis Robinson MW, Jancisrobinson.com Maturity: 2015-2021 Date: Tuesday 24 April 2012

Good value as usual. Attractive fruit, round, ripe tannins and a zesty freshness. Drinkable Saint-Emilion at an affordable price.

Score: 15 - 16 Decanter, Decanter.com Maturity: 2014-2020 Date: Monday 16 April 2012

A white with lots of citrus and mineral character and plums too. Medium body, with a solid density and a medium finish.

Score: 88 - 89 James Suckling, Jamessuckling.com Date: Sunday 01 April 2012