Wines Saint-Émilion Château Fonbel - 2022

Château Fonbel 2022 hails from the esteemed commune of Saint-Émilion, situated on the right bank of Bordeaux. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, often complemented by smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and occasionally Carmenère, this red wine reflects the classic varietal balance of the region. The 2022 vintage is marked by favourable weather, producing ripe, expressive fruit with ample concentration. The terroir at Château Fonbel encompasses a mixture of gravelly sand and clay soils, which enables an optimal ripening of grapes and imparts finesse and structure to the wine. Vinification at Fonbel combines traditional methods with modern precision, ensuring both authenticity and purity of fruit, while ageing in oak barrels adds further complexity and subtle spicy notes to the final blend.

Saint-Émilion boasts a rich heritage as one of Bordeaux’s oldest wine-producing areas, its vineyards draped across rolling hills and famed limestone terraces. The temperate maritime climate, tempered by the Dordogne river, provides long, steady ripening seasons that are especially favourable for Merlot, which thrives in the region’s clay-rich soils. Saint-Émilion’s unique topography—patchworks of sand, gravel, and the celebrated limestone côtes—contribute to the remarkable depth, aromatic complexity, and ageing potential of its wines. The medieval town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, standing as a testament to the longstanding viticultural and cultural significance of this area.

To complement the vibrant, supple character of Château Fonbel 2022, opt for hearty yet nuanced dishes. Classic pairings include roast duck breast with cherries, entrecôte Bordelaise, or slow-cooked lamb shoulder with herbs. Regional specialities such as cannelés de Bordeaux or a plate of aged Comté cheese will highlight the wine’s smooth tannins and subtle spice. Mushroom risotto or lentils with Toulouse sausage offer excellent options for a more rustic table.

Serve this Saint-Émilion at a cool but not cold temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. Decanting for about an hour before serving will allow the wine to open up, revealing its aromatic bouquet of ripe red fruits, plum, delicate floral notes and a touch of sweet spice. With its youthful vibrancy and elegant structure, this wine can be enjoyed now or cellared for further development over the coming years.