2020, Château Fonroque, SAINT-ÉMILION Grand Cru Classé

Bordeaux Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Franc.

I suggested/hoped that the 2020 Fonroque would display more finesse by the time of bottling, and it seems to have heard my words. With blackberry, briary and light sous-bois scents on the nose, this indeed conveys greater refinement. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly angular tannins, fresh and saline, with a dash of black pepper decorating the finish. A little Medocian in style with decent length, this should age well in bottle. 90 Neal Martin, Vinous.

The 2020 Fonroque is dark, rich and expansive. Gravel, incense, tobacco and dried herbs lend gorgeous aromatic nuance to a core of black cherry/plum fruit. This potent Saint-Émilion is full of character. 92 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.

Aromas of dusty berries, cherries, warm spices and petals introduce the 2020 Fonroque, a medium to full-bodied, supple and fleshy wine with a vibrant core of fruit, powdery tannins and a penetrating finish. As readers may remember, part of Fonroque's biodynamically farmed holdings are located on Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau, and the rest on the slopes, with more clay and colluvium. 92 William Kelley, Wine Advocate.

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2020 Fonroque gives up fragrant scents of potpourri, spice box and forest floor over a core of baked plums and boysenberries, plus a hint of anise. The medium-bodied palate has lovely freshness and soft, plush tannins, taking just a slight dip in the mid-palate and finishing a little abruptly. 87-89 Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate.

Subdued aromatics, this is attractive with raspberry flavours rippling through it and an appealing density, more old school and restrained than some, with classic balance. As it opens up, floral raspberry leaf appears in the best way, juicy and unfussy with crushed herbs and baked earth. Enjoyable, definitely not trying too hard and succeeding to charm. Certified biodynamic, Alain Moueix. A yield of 40hl/ha. 93 Jane Anson, Decanter.

Scented black fruits on the nose. Juicy and upfront, just stops short of being too severe with some salty austerity and clove spice that really is quite marked. Wood is apparent and that's detracting from the fruit enjoyment right now, restricting the overall expression a little, though the elements are well worked. It has good tension and focus and high acidity, but a bit strict and not so charming at this point. Has some classicism though and will soften in time. 92 Georgina Hindle, Decanter.

Drinking Window: 2027 - 2040