Description
Chateau Fonbadet is a charming estate in Pauillac, Bordeaux, which dates back to the 1800s. It was purchased by the current Peyronie family in 1950, and was expanded from its original 4 hectares by Robert Peyronie and son Pierre. Today, Pascale Peyronie manages the thirteen-hectare vineyard, emphasizing sustainable practices and biodiversity in the vineyard. They focus on the classic left-bank Bordeaux grapes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, producing two wines, of which this Chateau Fonbadet Pauillac is the grand vin. It’s an impressive wine which might not be quite as glamorous as its neighbours (Chateau Pichon Baron and Pichon Lalande in one direction, and Chateau Lynch-Bages for their more northerly Pauillac vineyards), but it is delicious, with fine texture and rich, layered black fruit flavours, plus the spice notes pointing to ageing in high quality oak barrels. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot in 2019, it is brimming with cassis, spice, blueberry and plum notes, medium 13.5% alcohol, with smooth tannins and a long, satisfying finish. Full of flavour with impeccable balance, it’s exceptional value for the price, a lovely wine and a great buy for Bordeaux lovers. Drink now or keep till 2029.
