Château Fonroque, located in the esteemed Saint-Émilion appellation of Bordeaux, is renowned for its commitment to biodynamic viticulture and the production of exceptional wines. This historic estate, which spans 17 hectares of prime vineyard land, dates back to the 17th century. Château Fonroque combines traditional winemaking techniques with innovative practices to create wines that truly express the unique terroir of Saint-Émilion.
James Suckling: 92-93/100
This shows good concentration and focus, with notes of ripe dark berries and walnuts, as well as a hint of chocolate. It’s medium-bodied with velvety tannins that are nicely spread across the palate. Lingering finish.
William Kelley - WIne Advocate: 91-93/100
The 2023 Fonroque offers up aromas of sweet cherries, dark berries and licorice, framed by a deft touch of new wood. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and supple, with a velvety attack that segues into a taut, mineral finish that's typical of this terroir, it's another strong performance from this biodynamically farmed 17-hectare estate on the western extreme of Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau.
A blend of 87% Merlot and 13% Cabernet Franc, the Fonroque 2023 is deep garnet-purple in color. It strolls out with confident, classic notes of juicy plums, cedar, and pencil lead, followed by hints of fallen leaves and wild thyme. The medium to full-bodied palate has plenty of bright, black fruit flavors on offer, with ripe, rounded tannins and compelling tension, finishing earthy.
Jane Anson: 91/100
Medium intensity ruby red, plenty of ripe raspberry and red cherry fruits on the nose, not as inky as some, with more nuance and florality among the fruits, violet edging, bitter anis on the finnish, this is charming, with balance. 31% new barrels, 25% barrels that have contained at least one previous wine, 20% foudre, 18% amphora and 6% concrete tank.
Antonio Galloni - Vinous: 90-92/100
The 2023 Fonroque has a tad more opulence on the nose compared to some of its peers, though it might have shaved away some of its definition in the process. The palate is medium-bodied with a little chewiness on the entry. Crisp toward the finish, with mainly red fruit laced with graphite and crushed stone, this Saint-Émilion improves as it goes on. I will give it the benefit of the doubt and hope that the aromatics gain a little more clarity.