Fontenil, Chateau
Summary
Château Fontenil is the personal 9-hectare Fronsac estate of influential wine consultant Michel Rolland and his wife Dany, producing approximately 30,000 bottles annually from predominantly Merlot vineyards planted on south-facing clay-limestone slopes. The wines undergo Rolland's signature techniques including extended maceration and micro-oxygenation, elevating Fronsac's profile through expressions that showcase both the appellation's distinctive terroir and the structured, concentrated style that defines his global consulting approach.
Heritage & Leadership
Château Fontenil, located in the Fronsac appellation of Bordeaux, was acquired by renowned oenologist Michel Rolland and his wife Dany in 1986. The property represented a personal project for Michel Rolland, who had already established himself as one of the world's most influential wine consultants. The Rollands purchased this estate in their home region, with Michel having been born in the neighboring commune of Libourne. Under their direction, Château Fontenil underwent significant renovation and replanting to elevate the quality of its wines. The property continues to be owned and managed by the Rolland family, with Michel applying his extensive winemaking expertise to this personal venture while maintaining his global consulting practice.
Vineyards & Wines
Château Fontenil encompasses 9 hectares (22.2 acres) of vineyards situated on the slopes of Fronsac, approximately 5 kilometers northwest of Libourne. The vineyard is planted predominantly with Merlot (90%), complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon (10%), reflecting the traditional grape composition of the right bank of Bordeaux. The estate benefits from its position on clay-limestone soils that provide excellent drainage and mineral components that contribute to the wine's structure. The vineyard's south-facing slopes maximize sun exposure for optimal ripening of the grapes. The estate produces approximately 30,000 bottles annually of its primary wine, Château Fontenil, as well as a second wine called Défi de Fontenil, which is made in smaller quantities from selected parcels.
Philosophy & Practice
Michel Rolland applies his signature winemaking approach at Château Fontenil, focusing on achieving physiological ripeness in the vineyard and extracting concentrated flavors during vinification. Harvest is conducted by hand, with rigorous sorting to ensure only the highest quality grapes enter production. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation in new French oak barrels. The main wine typically ages for 18 months in French oak barrels, with approximately 80% new oak. Rolland's approach includes practices such as extended maceration and micro-oxygenation techniques that he has advocated throughout his consulting career. The winemaking at Fontenil emphasizes fruit expression, structural balance, and aging potential—characteristics that have become hallmarks of Rolland's winemaking philosophy across his many projects.