Region: France, Bordeaux, Saint Emilion

Grape variety: Merlot & Cabernet Franc

Background: Folks have been making wine at Fonplegade – perched on the limestone that is home to Saint-Emilion’s finest vineyards – since the 16th century. And although the Chateau was included in the original 1955 classification of Grand Cru status, quality has shot even further upward since the estate was acquired by Denise and Stephen Adams in 2004. Their changes have been pioneering. First and foremost, they led the charge to handle the vineyards via biodynamic principles – the ultra-level beyond organic farming that has caught on through much of the wine world though is not as common in Bordeaux.

Tasting notes: It is full bodied and plush, with notes of blackcurrant, blueberry, cocoa and tobacco and a long, smooth finish. Generous black fruits and mineral notes. Rich and big on the palate with velvety and sweet tannins. Great length.

Reviews: 92 - 93/100, VertdeVin: 'The nose is fruity, gourmand, generous and rich. It reveals notes of plum jam and fine notes of blackberry cream associated with fine touches of blueberry, violet, as well as a few slight notes of toasted oak. The palate is fruity, fine, harmonious, silky, well-balanced and offers freshness and tension. On the palate this wine expresses notes of jam blackberry, plum and fine notes of cassis associated with a touch of cassis bud, violet, liquorice as well as discreet notes of toasted oak and sweet spices. Tannins are fine, well built and a bit firm. Good length.'

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