Winemaker and Vineyard: Château de Fonbel is one of the three estates owned by the Vauthier family, along with Ausone and Moulin St Georges. It is managed by Alain Vauthier, assisted by his daughter Pauline, with the support of oenologist Gilles Pauquet. The 16-hectare vineyard, located on the St Emilion plain, extends over clay-sandy, gravelly, and sandy soils. The grape variety is composed of Merlot (70%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (30%).

Tasting: From a 16-hectare vineyard on sandy soils on the plain, the 2019 Fonbel is a Merlot-dominant blend complemented by some Cabernet Sauvignon and, since 2004, Carmenère. Offering up aromas of blueberries, raspberries and loamy soil, it's a medium to full-bodied, ample and succulent wine with delicate tannins and a supple, giving profile. Fully 70% is matured in tank to keep the fruit in the foreground. robertparker.com (04.07.2022)

Service: Serve at room temperature (16-18°C) to accompany a ribeye steak and its porcini mushroom sauce.