Wines Côtes-du-Rhône Château Fonsalette - 2004

Château Fonsalette 2004 hails from the renowned Côtes-du-Rhône AOC, an appellation that encompasses some of the most expressive and classic red wines of southern France. This vintage is primarily crafted from Grenache, often blended with Syrah and a touch of Cinsault, reflecting the typical varietal composition of the region. The 2004 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, offering both generous warmth and crucial freshness, resulting in a wine that beautifully marries ripe red fruit with elegant acidity and soft, integrated tannins. The vinification at Château Fonsalette is both traditional and meticulous, allowing for a gentle extraction and minimal intervention, which preserves the character of the fruit and terroir.

The Côtes-du-Rhône region, stretching along the banks of the Rhône river, enjoys a Mediterranean climate marked by abundant sunshine, warm summers, and the cooling influence of the Mistral wind. The soils here are diverse, but in this sector, they are typically a mixture of limestone, clay, and pebbles, which contribute to both the structure and the aromatic complexity of the wines. Historically, the Rhône Valley has been a cradle of viticulture since Roman times, with a long-standing tradition for creating approachable yet age-worthy wines like this one.

This mature Côtes-du-Rhône rouge shines alongside dishes that respect its finesse and evolved character. Classic Provençal fare works particularly well—think slow-braised lamb with thyme and rosemary, ratatouille bursting with Mediterranean vegetables, or a rich duck confit. The gentle savoury notes and supple body also suit roasted game birds or even a platter of firm, well-aged cheeses from the region.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for around thirty minutes will help the wine fully reveal its bouquet of dried red fruit, subtle spice, and leathery nuances that have developed with age. This is a wine to be savoured quietly, ideally in good company, taking time to appreciate its understated depth and sense of place.