2017 Fontenil
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Fontenil is powerful, savory and tightly wound. There is good depth in the glass but less of the overt richness that is typical for this wine. Rose petals, mint and sweet spices add aromatic resonance to this mid-weight tightly wound Fronsac. I would give the 2017 at least another year or two in bottle to come together, as it clearly needs time. In 2017, Dany Rolland did not bottle Le Défi, her top selection.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Medium to deep garnet-purple colored the 2017 Fontenil comes prancing out of the glass with cheery kirsch and black raspberry scents followed by notions of warm plums, star anise and pencil shavings. Medium-bodied, the palate is elegant, stylish and refreshing with well-played, soft tannins and a perfumed finish.
The 2017 Fontenil offers a mixture of red and black fruit on the nose, laced with black truffle and light cracked pepper aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with supple red berry fruit, quite peppery in style with ample weight and grip towards the finish. It feels a little sinewy at the moment but it will age with style, requiring 3 to 4 years to mellow in bottle.
From the home estate of Michel and Danny Rolland, the 2017 Chateau Fontenil sport a deep ruby/plum color as well as a rounded, sexy, opulent style that's rarely found in the vintage. Blackcurrants, dried herbs, spice, and a touch of chocolate all emerge from the glass, and this medium to full-bodied Fronsac has a great mid-palate, terrific balance, and a great finish. It's well worth seeking out and will keep for over a decade.