A Saint Emilion Grand Cru

A Saint Emilion Grand Cru: Wine Reviewed Château de Fonbel Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2001 13 % alcohol about $25

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “The 2001 is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Barrique-aged for 12 months, the 2001 Château de Fonbel exhibits intense aromas of rich fruit and spiced oak. Ripe black and red fruits intermingle with black currants and damsons in the mouth and the silky texture is framed by leather and oak. This is a smooth, delicious and hard to resist now. Drink now-2011.” And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was weak but it built over time. The initial meal centered on a barbecued chicken leg. In response the wine was light with pleasant acidity. It was somewhat thin but long, tasting of chocolate, tobacco, and plums. When paired with a side dish of potatoes roasted in chicken fat this Bordeaux picked up strength and was quite round but the salt in my mouth seemed to come from the glass. Then came an oriental salad/salsa based on tomato, pimento, hot peppers, and garlic that gave the wine fine length and good acidity. The oak barrel was present and was definitely not overdone.

This review of a red Bordeau wine continues on our website.