Wines Côtes-du-Rhône Château Fonsalette - Syrah - 2006

Château Fonsalette 2006 Cuvée Syrah is a remarkable expression of Syrah from one of the Rhône Valley's most esteemed producers. The 2006 vintage brought a combination of ripeness and structure, hallmarking a year of moderate warmth with sufficient rainfall, allowing for slow, even ripening of the fruit. This cuvée, made exclusively from Syrah, offers an aromatic bouquet of blackcurrant, black pepper, violet and undergrowth, accentuated by gentle notes of leather and sweet spices from careful aging, possibly in older oak barrels that preserve the delicate character of the grape. The palate reveals both depth and freshness: fleshy black fruits and subtle earthy undertones are balanced by fine-grained tannins and a lively line of acidity, resulting in a wine of both elegance and age-worthy potential.

The Côtes-du-Rhône appellation stretches across diverse terroirs but the area surrounding Fonsalette is marked by alluvial soils rich in limestone and clay, which encourage both ripeness and complexity in the resulting wines. The Rhône's Mediterranean climate, with hot summers, cool nights, and the persistent Mistral wind, aids in retaining freshness and minimising disease pressure, critical for producing expressive Syrah. The region boasts a deep-rooted viticultural tradition, with Syrah becoming an emblematic variety especially in the northern stretches, and more southern sites like Fonsalette benefiting from its adaptability and ability to express the singular nuances of place.

For food pairings, this Syrah stands as a superb partner for robust, savoury dishes. Classic matches include slow-cooked lamb with Provence herbs, grilled duck breast with black olive tapenade, or a traditional daube Provençale. Vegetarians may enjoy it alongside aubergine gratin or wild mushroom risotto, as the wine’s earthiness will echo the savoury notes in these dishes. Local Rhône cheeses such as Saint-Marcellin or matured Tomme pair harmoniously with its supple, spicy character.

Serve Château Fonsalette 2006 Cuvée Syrah slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for 30-60 minutes will allow the complex aromas to open. This wine is delightful now, but if stored well, can develop further nuances over several more years.