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Fonbel 2016

St Emilion, Grand Cru

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Tasting Notes

The 2016 de Fonbel, ostensibly the entry label to the Vauthier portfolio, has an attractive bouquet of blackberry and briar aromas that develop a light estuarine scent with time. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannin, black fruit and a saline note toward the finish. Enjoy over the next six to eight years.

Score: 88

Neal Martin, Vinous.com Maturity: 2020-2026 01 January 2019

The 2016 Fonbel is a blend of 70% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 7% Carmenere picked from 29 September until 18 October at 50 hectoliters per hectare. It has a pretty cranberry and blackcurrant-scented bouquet, quite transparent and terroir-driven with nicely integrated oak (30% aged in new oak). The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin, a lively and breezy Saint Emilion, not the most complex you will find but full of personality. The freshness suggests that this will drink early, and that Carmenere just gives it something different (although Pauline Vauthier mentioned that she will regraft some of those vines).

Score: 88 - 90

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2019-2028 28 April 2017

The 2016 de Fonbel is a soft, fruity wine to drink now and over the next few years. Sweet red cherry and plum fruit is nicely pushed forward in this succulent, easygoing Saint-Émilion from the Vauthier family.

Score: 89

Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Maturity: 2018-2024 01 January 2019

Rich and crimson-tasting with just a hint of pencil shavings. Very sweet. Just a bit too sweet. Drying end.

Score: 16

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2023-2030 13 April 2017

A balanced and fruity wine with an almost Burgundian mouthfeel and balance. Medium body and a juicy finish.

Score: 90 - 91

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 04 April 2017