Viniou Reviews
Château Fonréaud’s 2022 “Le Cygne” Blanc is a fine representation of Bordeaux Blanc, crafted from the classic blend typically associated with the region, most often featuring Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and sometimes a touch of Muscadelle. The 2022 vintage has benefited from a warm, dry growing season, bringing expressive fruit and concentration while preserving freshness. The “Le Cygne” cuvée is renowned for its elegance, displaying bright citrus, white peach, and subtle floral notes, while the careful vinification—often including a period of maturation on lees—adds texture and a certain creaminess to the palate, harmonising with a vibrant acidity.
Bordeaux, and particularly its regional appellations, offers a fascinating diversity in white wine styles, with vineyards rooted in gravely, sandy or clay-limestone soils that retain both warmth and moisture. The climate is regulated by the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean, ensuring moderate temperatures and allowing grapes to ripen slowly, retaining aromatic finesse and crispness. Historically, Bordeaux has been celebrated more for its reds, but producers like Château Fonréaud have demonstrated the region’s savoir-faire in crafting balanced, complex whites with both freshness and structure, echoing a tradition of excellence dating back centuries.
Le Cygne 2022’s expressive fruit, floral aromatics and rounded mouthfeel make it a versatile partner at table. Enjoy it with delicate seafood, such as grilled langoustines, seared scallops or a classic lemon sole. It will also pair beautifully with poultry in a light sauce, a goat cheese salad or even regional dishes like oysters from Arcachon Bay. For a more local touch, try it alongside a fresh chèvre or a fine fish terrine.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled but not excessively cold, ideally between 8-10°C. This allows the wine’s aromatic complexity and vibrant acidity to shine, while the supple texture and lingering finish are fully appreciated. A young, lively vintage, it is best drunk over the next two to three years to enjoy its freshness and charm.
