Viniou Reviews
Clos Fontindoule’s 2018 Monbazillac presents a captivating example of this renowned sweet white wine from the South-West of France. Crafted primarily from Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle grapes, the wine owes its luxurious character to the botrytisation process, where noble rot concentrates sugars and flavours in the berries. The 2018 vintage displays all the hallmarks of a well-made Monbazillac: a silken palate, intense aromas of honeyed apricot, candied citrus peel, quince, and subtle notes of acacia and spice. The terroir here is marked by clay-limestone soils interspersed with gravelly parcels, well-suited to the slow ripening and the autumn mists that encourage noble rot, resulting in great aromatic complexity and balance between sweetness and refreshing acidity. Barrel ageing is often judiciously used to add texture and nuance while letting the vibrant fruit shine.
The Monbazillac appellation itself sits just south of Bergerac, on the left bank of the Dordogne River. Its history is intertwined with that of Sauternes, but Monbazillac is distinct for its accessibility and expressive fruit. This region benefits from a temperate, semi-continental climate: summers are warm, autumns are mild and misty—ideal for developing the noble rot so crucial to luscious sweet wines. The soils, rich in limestone and clay, provide a solid mineral backbone and lend freshness to the wines, preventing excessive heaviness.
When it comes to food pairings, Monbazillac is a versatile delight. Traditionally, it matches perfectly with foie gras, the region’s iconic dish. It also enhances blue cheeses such as Roquefort, and is beautifully contrasted with spicy Asian cuisine or duck à l’orange. For a classic French experience, try it with a tarte Tatin or fruit-based desserts. The wine's rich mouthfeel and vivacious acidity keep it engaging with both savoury and sweet dishes.
For the best enjoyment, serve this 2018 Clos Fontindoule Monbazillac slightly chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Decanting is not necessary, but allowing the wine a few minutes in the glass will reveal additional layers of aromas. This wine can be enjoyed now or cellared further to gain in complexity.
