Viniou Reviews
Château Carles 2018 from the Fronsac AOC is a splendid representative of Bordeaux’s right bank reds. Made predominantly from Merlot, with supporting roles from Cabernet Franc and occasionally a touch of Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine captures the essence of its terroir. The 2018 vintage was marked by an early season of rainfall, followed by a warm, dry summer leading to concentrated, ripe fruit. Vinification here typically involves careful extraction to maintain the wine's depth and structure, followed by aging in French oak barrels—often a mix of new and used—to develop complexity while respecting the fruit.
Fronsac is a picturesque subregion just northwest of Saint-Émilion, historically acclaimed as a rival to its more famous neighbour. The region’s unique terroir is defined by its elevated limestone plateaus and clay soils, which impart freshness and supple tannins to the wines. The climate is temperate with warm summers and moderate rainfall, fostering optimal grape ripening while retaining aromatic finesse. Fronsac has a noble heritage dating back to Roman times and was once more prized than St-Émilion and Pomerol, thanks to its highly regarded wines.
Château Carles 2018 shows a bouquet of ripe black cherries, plums, and cassis, complemented by subtle notes of mocha, spice, and a dusting of cedar from its oak maturation. In terms of food pairings, this supple yet structured red suits classic French cuisine such as duck breast with cherries, entrecôte bordelaise, or a rich mushroom risotto. For a regional experience, consider a confit de canard or a hearty lamb stew, both of which echo the depth and warmth of the wine.
For optimal enjoyment, decant Château Carles 2018 about an hour before serving to allow its aromas to fully unfold. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C to best appreciate its generous fruit, polished tannins, and the refinement typical of great Fronsac wines.
