2010 is one of the very best vintages of the century in Bordeaux, so every time we find a parcel at a good price we snap it up. Our latest is a cru Bourgeois from Listrac, in the north of the Médoc, and is an absolute winner.

The Château Fonréaud vineyard extends over the high gravel terrace of the Médoc, located between the Gironde estuary and the Atlantic Ocean. This property takes its name from a legend, according to which King Henry II stopped here once to quench his thirst. The term "Font-Réaux" means "Royal Fountain". The vineyard is one parcel of land, that covers 32 hectares, is planted on limestone from the Pyrenees, with 53% cabernet sauvignon, 43% merlot and 4% petit verdot.

"From the cool outreaches of Listrac, this attractive dark ruby-colored wine offers up notes of camphor, licorice and blackcurrants. Its medium body and good richness as well as ripeness, purity of fruit, and endearing texture make for an attractive wine to drink over the next decade.”
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate

At 10 years of age, Château Fonréaud still has great depth of colour. Very classic in style, with a beautiful core of fruit – dried plums and currants – and a meaty, earthy intensity to the palate. A smart, traditional claret from a first class vintage - right in its drinking window and highly recommended.

Tasting note:
Ripe, luscious black fruits at first, with secondary aromas emerging – roasted meat, smoky spice, and an earthy, herbaceous note. Rich and rewarding on the palate, with fresh, juicy cassis, fine-grained tannins and good balance. Structure here, but also a lush, open, rewarding texture.