2022 Fontenil

Due to a devastating hailstorm, no Delfi will be produced this vintage, and yields are minuscule. However, the 2022 Château Fontenil from this remarkable winemaker is well worth seeking out. Loads of cassis, ripe black cherries, spicy wood, and savory, incense-like notes all define the aromatics, and it’s medium to full-bodied, with a broad, layered mouthfeel, sweet tannins, and a gorgeous finish. All Merlot that was raised 18 months in just 30% new oak, this fabulous Fronsac can be enjoyed any time over the coming two decades or more. The 2022 hit 14% alcohol with a great pH of 3.68.

The 2022 Fontenil offers a detailed fresh bouquet that's initially understated but opens with aeration to reveal marine-influenced scents of rose petal and Earl Grey. The palate is well balanced with fine-boned tannins. It's fresh and quite classic in style with an off-dry finish. This is the kind of Fronsac I can imagine polishing off in no time at all, yet it has the substance to age well. This is very fine.

Saline grip and mouth-watering lemongrass and redcurrant acidities, combined with the natural power of the estate that is always striking, well handled and coupled with fleshy and grilled black fruits that are allowed to speak. A good vintage here. 26hl/h yield, 30% new oak for ageing, 10ha of vines, clay limestone soils, Dany and Michel Rolland's home estate in Fronsac.