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SKU 847595
$394.08/case
$32.84/bottle
Out of stock
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The 2018 Fonbadet has a refined, detailed bouquet of cedar and mint-tinged black fruit that gains intensity in the glass. The oak is judiciously used, both here and on the palate, which is harmonious and silky-smooth in texture, disguising the depth and intensity of this Pauillac. Easily the finest Fonbadet I have tasted, it is a classy wine with big ambitions, and the best wine that I have encountered from this estate. Chapeau!
There are few regions in the world with stricter regulations in regards to wine production and grape varietals than those found in Bordeaux, France. Here, in the home of the world's finest wines, the type and quality of grapes used is of utmost importance, and the legendary wineries which work on the banks of the Gironde river have mastered the careful art of juice blending to find the perfect balance for their produce. Whilst there are six 'official' Bordeaux grapes, the two key varietals for almost every fine Bordeaux wine are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and with good reason. Whilst Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are renowned for their acidity and astringency, strong fruit and spice flavors and full body, Merlot grapes are notably rounded, soft, fleshy and lighter on tannin. The combination of these two varietals, along with a small percentage of (commonly) Petit Verdot or Cabernet Franc, is the perfect balancing act – the two grape varietals cancel out each others weaker points, and accentuate all that is good about the other.
France, often regarded as the heart of the wine world, boasts a rich history, diverse terroirs, and a captivating variety of grape varietals. From the renowned vineyards of Bordeaux to the picturesque landscapes of Burgundy, France offers a wine lover’s dream journey. Whether you’re new to the world of wine or a seasoned enthusiast looking […]
Bordeaux: The Pinnacle of Terroir Expression In the illustrious realm of wine, Bordeaux stands as a beacon of excellence, where history, tradition, and terroir converge to create some of the world’s most iconic wines. Bordeaux’s rich mosaic of vineyards is characterized by the left bank, right bank, and the sweet symphony of Sauternes. Each of […]
Pauillac, a prestigious appellation within Bordeaux's Left Bank, stands as a vinous crown jewel renowned for its exceptional red wines. Home to some of the world's most illustrious châteaux, including Lafite Rothschild and Latour, Pauillac is synonymous with Cabernet Sauvignon-driven blends. What makes Pauillac unique is its impeccable terroir, characterized by deep gravel soils and a maritime influence from the Gironde estuary, creating wines of unparalleled power, structure, and longevity.
Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in this environment, contributing to Pauillac's signature style—a harmonious blend of cassis, graphite, and cedar. The region's famed classification system of 1855, which ranked châteaux based on reputation, further highlights Pauillac's commitment to excellence. Exploring Pauillac wines unveils the epitome of Bordeaux winemaking, where tradition, meticulous vineyard management, and the art of blending converge to produce wines that exemplify the grandeur and sophistication of this esteemed appellation.
VM94pts
Vinous Media
The 2018 Fonbadet is superb. Classically elegant and refined, the 2018 graces the palate with exquisite finesse right out of the gate. Red berry, floral, blood orange and minty flavors convey freshness as the 2018 opens in the glass. Bright acids perk up the nuanced, persistent finish. Readers won't find too many 2018s that are this delicate, sensual and flat-out charming.
WE92pts
Wine Enthusiast
From the southern end of the Pauillac appellation, Fonbadet has illustrious neighbors such as Château Latour. Typically Cabernets dominate the blend, giving a powerful impetus towards aging. It's a wine that is punching above its status, with solid tannins and impressive black currant fruits. Drink from 2018.
JD92pts
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2018 Château Fonbadet is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend that includes 25% Merlot, all brought up in 50% new French oak. It has a closed, tight, yet promising style that carries lots of darker berry fruits, scorched earth, graphite, and mineral-like aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it's beautifully balanced and has lots of fine-grained tannins, solid mid-palate depth, and a great finish. Still holding things relatively close to its vest, it's going to benefit from 4-6 years of bottle age and keep for two decades.
WA91pts
Wine Advocate
A blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot and aged in 50% new oak, the deep garnet-purple colored 2018 Fonbadet rolls effortless out of the glass with evocative scents of stewed black plums, blackcurrant cordial and chocolate-covered cherries, with wafts of cedar chest, star anise and cinnamon stick. The medium to full-bodied palate coats the mouth with spicy black fruits, supported by grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing savory.
JS91pts
James Suckling
Aromas of dark fruit, herbs and some sandalwood. It’s full-bodied with firm, fine tannins. Savory ending. A little in reserve and tight now. Try after 2024.
DC91pts
Decanter
This really is a successful Fonbadet full of rich dark liquorice that feels extremely typical of the appellation. The tannins are present but not rustic with a sense of vibrancy and uplift through the finish alongside a quickening feeling of slate minerality.
A yield of 55hl/ha suggests there was such natural ripeness in this vintage that low yields were not necessary to get this intensity of flavour. No need to wait too long to get going on this.
