Château Fontenil · Fronsac · 2016
Merlot-led red wine | Bordeaux, France | 750ml
Producer & Terroir
Established in 1986, Château Fontenil is the home estate of Bordeaux oenologists Dany and Michel Rolland. After years of consulting for producers throughout the region, the couple acquired this Right Bank property in Fronsac.
The vineyards lie on a south-fac...Show More >
Château Fontenil · Fronsac · 2016
Merlot-led red wine | Bordeaux, France | 750ml
Producer & Terroir
Established in 1986, Château Fontenil is the home estate of Bordeaux oenologists Dany and Michel Rolland. After years of consulting for producers throughout the region, the couple acquired this Right Bank property in Fronsac.
The vineyards lie on a south-facing clay-and-limestone hillside overlooking the Isle River and Libourne. Planted predominantly to Merlot, they are sustainably farmed and harvested by hand, with carefully limited yields and vines averaging more than 45 years of age.
Tasting Notes
The 2016 offers ripe plum, black cherry and dark berries, with layers of tobacco, spice, cedar and gently toasted oak. Its rounded, supple palate balances generous fruit with freshness and silky tannins, leading to a savory finish.
For a dinner centered on roast lamb, duck or braised beef, this Fronsac brings the plush fruit and savory depth that make Merlot-led Bordeaux such a satisfying table companion.
67 Wine Buyer Review
Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer: “Comes on with aromas of warm, ripe plum fruit beginning to show some stewed character, followed by a hint of tobacco. The palate is juicy, with some wood and spice on the finish.”
Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2016
Falstaff, 93 Points: The existing listing credits the 2016 vintage with 93 points, describing fresh, balanced dark berries, cherry, licorice, chocolate and well-integrated oak.
The existing listing also notes praise from Guide Hachette des Vins for black fruit, raspberry, pepper and integrated toast, with a rounded palate, silky tannins and a long finish.
Pairing & Serving
Suggested pairings include roast lamb, grilled steak, duck breast, braised beef, mushroom dishes and firm aged cheeses. Serve at approximately 60–65°F. A 30–60 minute decant is a useful starting point; taste as it opens and adjust to your preference.
Wine Details
- Producer: Château Fontenil, Dany and Michel Rolland
- Vintage: 2016
- Appellation: Fronsac
- Region: Bordeaux, France
- Style: Merlot-led red Bordeaux
- Soils: Clay and limestone
- Harvest: Hand harvested
- Size: 750ml
A supple Fronsac with ripe plum fruit, savory spice and a distinctly dinner-friendly character.
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