Fonbel, Chateau de
Summary
Château de Fonbel is a 16-hectare Saint-Émilion Grand Cru estate owned by the Vauthier family, producing Merlot-dominant Bordeaux blends from sandy and gravel soils on the appellation's plains. The estate benefits from the same rigorous winemaking standards as its sister property Château Ausone, offering exceptional value through its distinctive terroir expression and measured oak aging approach while remaining more approachable in youth than many Saint-Émilion counterparts.
Heritage & Leadership
Château de Fonbel is a Grand Cru estate located in the Saint-Émilion appellation of Bordeaux. The property has been owned by the Vauthier family since the early 20th century, the same family that owns the prestigious Premier Grand Cru Classé A Château Ausone. Alain Vauthier, who manages both properties, has been instrumental in developing Fonbel's identity as a distinct expression of Saint-Émilion terroir. In recent years, his daughter Pauline Vauthier has taken on an increasingly significant role in the day-to-day operations and winemaking decisions at the estate, representing the next generation of family leadership. The Vauthiers have maintained a consistent focus on quality viticulture at Fonbel, applying their winemaking expertise while respecting the property's unique characteristics that differentiate it from their flagship estate.
Vineyards & Wines
Château de Fonbel encompasses approximately 16 hectares of vineyards situated on the plains of Saint-Émilion. Unlike the limestone-dominant soils found at Château Ausone, Fonbel's terroir consists primarily of sandy soils with some gravel components, creating a distinctive growing environment. The vineyard is planted with a diverse mix of grape varieties: Merlot (70%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%), Cabernet Franc (7%), and Petit Verdot (3%). This varietal composition is somewhat unusual for Saint-Émilion, particularly the inclusion of Petit Verdot and the relatively high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon. The estate produces a main wine, Château de Fonbel Grand Cru Saint-Émilion, which typically displays red fruit characteristics with structural elements from the Cabernet varieties. The property's location and soil composition yield wines that are generally approachable earlier than many Saint-Émilion counterparts while maintaining aging potential.
Philosophy & Practice
The Vauthier family applies a rigorous approach to viticulture at Château de Fonbel, with practices informed by their experience at Château Ausone but adapted to Fonbel's specific terroir. Harvest is conducted by hand, with careful sorting to ensure only optimal fruit enters the winemaking process. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, allowing for precise management of extraction and preservation of fruit character. The wine typically undergoes malolactic fermentation in barrel, followed by aging in French oak for approximately 12-18 months, with about 30% new oak used annually. This measured oak regimen aims to complement rather than dominate the wine's expression. The Vauthiers' philosophy at Fonbel centers on producing wines that honestly reflect their Saint-Émilion origins while offering accessibility and value within the family's portfolio, demonstrating their commitment to quality across different price points and terroir expressions.