1996 Chateau Fonbadet (Ex Chateau) - 750ml
Wine by Bok 9.25/10 stars
The 1996 Château Fonbadet exemplifies the exceptional quality of this vintage for Pauillac while offering a unique character that sets it apart from its peers. Sourced directly from the château, this wine reflects the careful cultivation of vines situated on gravelly soils in the heart of Pauillac, a region renowned for producing structured and age-worthy wines.
On the nose, intriguing aromas of warm oak and rusty copper intermingle with subtle earthy tones, offering a bouquet that is both rustic and refined. The palate is medium-bodied, with an elegant style more reminiscent of Pessac-Léognan or Graves than the classic Pauillac profile. Unlike the typical vegetal and steamy notes often associated with Pauillac, this wine delivers a mature, grounded expression, dominated by earthy nuances and a touch of minerality.
Aged gracefully over the decades, the 1996 Château Fonbadet is drinking beautifully now, with well-integrated tannins and a balanced structure. Its good maturity makes it highly pleasant to enjoy today, yet its solid backbone ensures it can continue to age gracefully for another 10 to 20 years.
The 1996 Château Fonbadet is a red wine from Pauillac, Bordeaux, France. It’s produced primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with possible smaller portions of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, characteristic of Bordeaux blends. Here's a detailed look: (11/2024)
Vintage Overview
The 1996 vintage in Bordeaux, especially in the Médoc, was exceptional for Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines from this year are noted for their structure, concentration, and aging potential.
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Deep garnet with a slight brick hue, indicative of maturity.
- Aroma: Offers complex notes of blackcurrants, cedar, tobacco, leather, and earthy undertones. Secondary aromas such as truffle and dried herbs may be prominent due to age.
- Palate: Medium to full-bodied with fine-grained tannins. Flavors of dark berries, cassis, and hints of graphite, complemented by a balanced acidity and a lingering finish.
- Finish: Long, with a savory and slightly smoky edge.
Food Pairing
- Grilled or roasted lamb
- Aged cheeses (e.g., Comté, Gouda)
- Beef Wellington or steak au poivre
Aging Potential
Although the 1996 Château Fonbadet has excellent structure for aging, at nearly 30 years, it would likely be at or near its peak drinking window. Decanting is recommended to separate sediment and allow the aromas to open.
Specifications
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Sub-Region | Pauillac |
| Vintage | 1996 |
| Grape | Cabernet / Merlot |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Bok Rating | 9.25/10 Stars |
| ABV | 12.5% |
| Food Pairing | Beef, Venison |
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