Château Fonplégade Saint Emilion 2009
Château Fonplégade
As our flagship wine, Château Fonplégade is the ultimate expression of our terroir. It is also a wine of impeccable balance, bringing together the finest attributes of our vineyard to create a complex and complete expression of Saint-Emilion winemaking. From our oldest vines grown in clay and limestone rich soils, Château Fonplégade gains its sophisticated signature minerality, as well as its sweet tannins and soft, velvety mouthfeel. Though our old-vine fruit forms the rich, compelling core of Château Fonplégade, a modest amount of grapes from somewhat younger vines is also incorporated in the blend, adding voluptuous black fruit notes and tannic structure. Château Fonplégade is aged for 18 to 24 months in 80% new French oak and 20% one-year-old cooperage.
Wine Advocate
The 2009 is a strong effort from this American-owned property situated on the lower hillsides of St.-Emilion where the soils are a mixture of gravel, clay and decomposed limestone. A dense purple color is followed by copious black fruit aromas (plums, blackberries and figs) intermixed with hints of graphite, chocolate and wood smoke. Full-bodied, substantial and large-scaled with intense fruit, terrific purity and a modern style, this brawny St.-Emilion will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring and last for 20-25 years.
Score: 94.
—Robert Parker,
February
2012.
Wine Spectator
This expressive red delivers plum, blackberry, espresso and mineral flavors that drive through the palate, supported by firm, well-integrated tannins. Savory and toasty, with a dark, racy finish. Drink now through 2020.
Score: 93.
—Thomas Matthews,
March
31,
2012.
Wine Enthusiast
Almost black in color, this is a powerful expression of rich 2009. It feels sumptuous and rich, and the acidity provides good counterweight. There is structure from the wood aging that threads through the black fruits. Concentrated and dense, it should age over 5-6 years.
Score: 91.
—Roger Voss,
February
01,
2013.
All sizes are 750mL unless otherwise noted.
Vintages and ratings subject to change at any time.
All pricing and availability subject to change.
Artwork does not necessarily represent items for sale.
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