Viniou Reviews
Château La Fagnouse 2018 is a distinguished red wine from the prestigious Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation, located within the Libournais subregion of Bordeaux. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, which thrives in this area, complemented by Cabernet Franc and occasionally a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, this 2018 vintage benefits from a temperate growing season that offered generous ripeness and balance. The wine-making process typically involves careful hand-harvesting, temperature-controlled fermentation, and a period of maturation in French oak barrels, which impart nuanced notes of vanilla, toast, and spice to the wine’s natural fruit core.
Saint-Émilion is celebrated for its clay and limestone soils, which contribute to the signature plushness and aromatic complexity of its wines. The microclimate is moderated by the proximity of the Dordogne River, ensuring mild winters and relatively warm summers—ideal for consistent grape ripening. The history of viticulture here dates back to Roman times, and Saint-Émilion itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting centuries of winemaking tradition.
This 2018 Saint-Émilion Grand Cru shines when paired with classic French cuisine. Its supple tannins and layered structure make it an excellent companion for rich dishes such as duck breast with cherry sauce, beef Wellington, or a slow-braised lamb shank. Locally inspired pairings like entrecôte à la Bordelaise or a mushroom and truffle risotto will also highlight the wine’s earthy and savoury undertones. For cheese enthusiasts, aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire are superb accompaniments, enhancing both the wine and the food.
For optimal appreciation, decant Château La Fagnouse 2018 for at least an hour to allow its bouquet and palate to fully open. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to best appreciate its aromatic depth, velvety texture, and harmonious balance. This wine is enjoyable now but also promises further evolution with several years of cellaring.
