Château Fonréaud 2022

Château Fonréaud is an 18th-century property and one of the better-known estates of Listrac-Médoc, the inland Bordeaux appellation set back from the Gironde between Moulis and Saint-Julien. The blend is led by Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and Petit Verdot. Listrac sits on higher ground than the riverside communes, with gravel over limestone and clay; the limestone holds water through dry spells and keeps acidity fresh, while the gravel drains well and helps Cabernet ripen. The cooler, more continental position gives the wines their firm, classic Médoc structure. Twelve months in oak barrels rounds the tannins through gradual oxygen exchange and adds cedar and light spice without covering the fruit. The wine shows a deep colour and a complex nose of blackcurrant, blueberry, mint and violet, with cedar and a savoury, earthy edge. The palate is juicy and rich, with fresh acidity and grippy but ripe tannins that carry a long finish. Serve at 17 degrees and decant 45 minutes ahead. It is a natural match for red meat and firm cheeses.