The 2020 Château De Fonbel is based on 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Carmenère, coming from more sandy, gravelly soils. This deep ruby-hued effort offers a terrific bouquet of red and black currants, leafy tobacco, sandalwood, and graphite, and it's medium to full-bodied, has a supple, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and outstanding length. It's surprisingly accessible yet is going to have 15 years of prime drinking, possibly more.
93 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2023)
A juicy and fruity red with plums, ripe cherries and ash. Medium body. Delicious fruit and a soft and fruity finish. Drink now or hold.
92 points, James Suckling (Mar 2023)
A blend of 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 7% Carmenere, the 2020 de Fonbel is deep garnet-purple in color. It comes bounding out with notions of boysenberries, stewed plums, and fresh blueberries, plus suggestions of pencil shavings, lavender, and tilled soil. The medium-bodied palate is vibrant and expressive, with very soft tannins and a lively backbone, finishing with lots of energy.
92 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent (Mar 2023)
Fully 70% of the Vauthier family's 2020 Fonbel was aged in tank, and that no doubt helps to explain its appealing purity of fruit. Bursting with notes of cherries, berries, petals and anise, it's medium to full-bodied, lively and charming.
91 points, William Kelley, Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)
Some powerful tannins along with black fruits. It is a juicy wine, ripe with black-currant flavors and a light structure. Drink the wine from 2026.
91 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (Dec 2023)
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