2021 Fonplegade
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind. Sweetness and it’s drinkable on a flight but I’d never buy it. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
From a beautiful terroir on the hillside just outside of Saint-Emilion, the 2021 Château Fonplégade is based on 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc raised in a mix of cask, concrete, and amphora. Cassis, spring flowers, ripe strawberries, and hints of tobacco all emerge from this medium-bodied, supple, layered, incredibly impressive 2021. I love its mid-palate, and it has present yet perfectly ripe tannins and outstanding length.
The 2021 Fonplégade is a very pretty, delicate Saint-Émilion. Silky, aromatic and medium in body, the 2021 is classy from start to finish. Spice, menthol, tobacco, mocha and dried herbs open gradually in the glass. In this tasting, the 2021 comes across a bit clenched in feel.
Smoked herbs, spices and a hint of lanolin cream to the red berries and plums. Generous but juicy on the palate with a medium body and silky tannins. Pretty long and flattering finish. Plenty of wood here but it should come together better in two more years. Try in 2025.