CHÂTEAU FONROQUE 2017

Under the direction of Alain Moueix
Technical manager Laurent Nougaro

Weather conditions

The winter of 2016-2017 was very deficient in water with precipitation 30% below seasonal norms. The first half of the season was cold, then the winter ended with very mild temperatures. Budburst was early and the very beginning of spring retained this mildness, which activated growth. On the nights of April 27 and 28, the temperature dropped to -6°C in some areas causing significant frost. After these nights, which were dark for many vineyards in the region, heat and drought settled in until the end of spring. This caused water stress in the vineyard. From June 25, significant rains marked a change in climate. The summer was dry and rather cool. Veraison was early and rapid. The welcome rains at the beginning of September allowed for complete ripening of the skins.

Harvest area

16.45 hectares

Harvest terroir

Limestone plateau and clay-limestone slope

Harvest grape varieties

93% Merlot – 7% Cabernet Franc

Harvest dates

September 18 to 23

Vinification

A few lines on the vinification of this vintage.
Learn more about vinification

Cultivation method

Organic wine, EU Agriculture, FR-BIO-07
Biodynamic wine, controlled by ECOCERT France SAS

Aging

30% new barrels and 70% in barrels of one wine or more

Yield

35 hectoliters / ha

Production

36,000 bottles
* For this vintage.

Tasting

Beautiful purple color and deep nose. At this stage, the wine develops aromas of blackberries, black cherries, gingerbread. The palate is ample and harmonious, with a classic style. The texture, silky at first, becomes more velvety with aeration. Black fruits are joined by violet and verbena. The long finish affirms the mineral character of the wine. Its potential is great and will assert itself during aging. Absolutely surprising density and length for the vintage.