The 2018 Fonbadet has a refined, detailed bouquet of cedar and mint-tinged black fruit that gains intensity in the glass. The oak is judiciously used, both here and on the palate, which is harmonious and silky-smooth in texture, disguising the depth and intensity of this Pauillac. Easily the finest Fonbadet I have tasted, it is a classy wine with big ambitions, and the best wine that I have encountered from this estate. Chapeau!

I loved the 2018 Château Fonbadet, a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend (there’s 25% Merlot) that’s aging in 50% new French oak. Classic Pauillac notes of cassis, lead pencil, graphite, cold fireplace, and ample earthy minerality all flow to a medium to full-bodied, elegant wine that stays tight, focused, and structured on the palate. It’s going to need 4-5 years of bottle age, but it’s a beauty.

This 20-hectare vineyard in Saint-Lambert (currently 17.33 hectares are in production) is planted to a density of 10,000 vines per hectare with an average age in 2018 of 60 years. The wine is aging in 50% new barrels and 50% second year barrels. The blend is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. Deep purple-black colored, the 2018 Fonbadet reveals intense notions of freshly crushed blackcurrants, kirsch and blackberry coulis with touches of truffles, crushed rocks, black pepper and unsmoked cigars. Medium-bodied and laden with ripe, juicy fruit, it has a soft, plush texture and just enough freshness, finishing earthy. The 2015 Fonbadet is composed of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Merlot, aged in 50% new and 50% one-year-old barrels. Deep garnet-purple in color, it has a crème de cassis, baked plums and lavender-scented nose with nuances of bouquet garni and mossy bark plus a touch of hoisin. Medium-bodied, firm and chewy, it's a little lean and finishes a little abrupt. Drink Date: 2018-2024.