Chateau Fonplegade 2016

Château Fonplégade Saint Emilion Grand Cru Classé, Bordeaux, 2016 

Grapes: A blend of organic Merlot and Cabernet Franc grown biodynamically, 19ha vineyard on limestone/clay/sand soils, 25 year avearge vine age, natural yeast fermentation, matured in (50% new) French oak barrels and concrete vats.

Critics' Tasting Notes: 

"Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Fonplegade opens with a very savory nose of smoked meats, tapenade, sautéed herbs and beef drippings over a core of plum preserves, chocolate-covered cherries and cedar chest plus wafts of violets and cigars. Medium to full-bodied, the palate possesses both intensity and elegance, with the black fruit layers superbly framed by firm, fine-grained tannins and wonderful freshness, finishing long and mineral laced."

96+/100 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, robertparker.com, November 2018

"Expressive nose, still youthful but nicely layered with high ripeness, red and dark berries, fine oak and tobacco. The palate combines power and freshness with elegant fruit, fine backbone of oak and grainy tannin, long and lingering finish with elegant fruit, fine spice and great sustain."

94/100 points, Andreas Larsson, TASTED, December 2018

Also rated: "2 stars (out of 3) Coup de Coeur" in Le Guide Hachette des Vins, 2020