Fonroque, Chateau
Summary
Château Fonroque is a 17.5-hectare Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé estate owned by the Moueix family since 1931, producing Merlot-dominant wines from clay-limestone soils on the region's limestone plateau. Under Alain Moueix's direction since 2001, the property became one of Bordeaux's first classified estates to achieve biodynamic certification, balancing traditional Right Bank winemaking with ecological practices that enhance terroir expression.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Fonroque stands as one of Saint-Émilion's classified growth estates, holding Grand Cru Classé status since the original Saint-Émilion classification of 1955. The property has been in the Moueix family since 1931 when Jean Moueix acquired it, establishing a foundation for what would become a significant family presence in Bordeaux's Right Bank.
Today, Alain Moueix directs Château Fonroque, having taken the reins in 2001. His leadership marked a pivotal shift in the estate's approach to viticulture and winemaking. Under his guidance, Fonroque began its transition to biodynamic farming in 2002, achieving full Demeter certification in 2006 and Biodyvin certification shortly thereafter. This made Château Fonroque one of the first classified growths in Bordeaux to embrace certified biodynamic practices.
The estate's name "Fonroque" references the natural springs ("fontaine") and rocky terrain ("roque") that characterize the property, reflecting its distinctive terroir within the Saint-Émilion appellation.
Vineyards & Wines
Château Fonroque encompasses 17.5 hectares of vineyards situated on Saint-Émilion's limestone plateau and adjacent slopes. The vineyard composition reflects the classic Right Bank preference for Merlot, with approximately 85% of plantings dedicated to this variety, complemented by 15% Cabernet Franc. This varietal distribution aligns with the estate's terroir, characterized by clay-limestone soils atop the region's distinctive limestone bedrock.
The vineyards benefit from an average vine age exceeding 30 years, with some parcels containing vines over 50 years old. These mature vines grow at elevations between 75-90 meters above sea level, with various exposures across the estate's gently rolling terrain.
The estate produces approximately 60,000 bottles annually of its Grand Vin, Château Fonroque Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé. In certain vintages, the property also releases a second wine. The Grand Vin typically undergoes 12-18 months of aging in French oak barrels, with 30-50% new oak depending on the vintage characteristics.
Philosophy & Practice
Biodynamic principles form the cornerstone of Château Fonroque's viticultural approach. Since achieving certification in 2006, the estate has eliminated all synthetic chemicals from its farming practices, instead utilizing biodynamic preparations and following the biodynamic calendar for vineyard operations. This includes preparation 500 (horn manure), preparation 501 (horn silica), and various herbal teas applied throughout the growing season.
In the cellar, Alain Moueix employs a minimal intervention philosophy. Harvesting is conducted by hand with careful sorting in the vineyard and again at the winery. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled concrete and stainless steel tanks, with gentle extraction techniques to preserve fruit purity and terroir expression. The estate practices plot-by-plot vinification, allowing for precise blending decisions.
Château Fonroque's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the vineyards to include water conservation measures, biodiversity initiatives, and energy efficiency throughout the property. The estate maintains hedgerows, cover crops, and insectary plants to foster ecological balance. This comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship reflects Alain Moueix's conviction that authentic terroir expression can only emerge from balanced, living soils and a holistic approach to wine production.