Château Fombrauge 2020

This 2020 vintage of Château Fombrauge embodies the excellence of a Domaine vineyard with over five centuries of history. The property is located in Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes, on a 58-hectare terroir, and is distinguished by its predominantly Merlot blend (96%), with a touch of Cabernet Franc (4%).

Terroir and vines

The vineyards are planted on clay-limestone soils and Fronsadais molasses, giving the wine a fine minerality and elegant structure. The vines, with an average age of 37 years, are planted at a density of 6,500 vines per hectare. The vineyard is managed using environmentally-friendly practices, with leaf thinning in July and September. Certified Terra Vitis, HVE3 (High Environmental Value Level 3), SME and Bee-Friendly, Domaine demonstrates a strong commitment to biodiversity.

Vinification and ageing

Vinification is based on a precise plot selection, according to terroir, grape variety and vine age, supported by the use of drones to map grape vigor and ripeness. Hand-picking is followed by rigorous sorting, with particular attention paid to each bunch, sorted before and after destemming by a team of 20 skilled workers. Pigeage is entirely manual, and maceration lasts 28 to 32 days for Merlot, and 26 to 28 days for Cabernet Franc. Aged for 16 months, 35% of the wine is matured in new barrels and 65% in one-wine barrels, bringing harmonious structure and complexity to the wine.

Tasting

The Château Fombrauge 2020 reveals a deep, intense color, typical of the great Saint-Émilion. The nose is marked by aromas of ripe black fruit, enhanced by spicy and mineral notes. On the palate, Merlot provides a velvety, rich texture, while Cabernet Franc adds freshness and finesse. The tannic structure is both powerful and elegant, underpinning a long, refined finish.

Food & wine

This wine is ideal with grilled or roasted red meats, game or truffle-based dishes. It can also accompany mature cheeses, revealing all its complexity and depth.

The 2020 vintage of Château Fombrauge, signed by Bernard Magrez and recommended by oenologist Michel Rolland, is a classic, sophisticated expression of the Saint-Émilion terroir, promising remarkable ageing potential.