Review: Chateau Fombrauge 2006 Rouge

The low-down: The chateau is owned by a Bordeaux magnate (Bernard Magrez) who is known for strong and full-bodied wines. Hugh Johnson prepares us: "Its a Bernard Magrez wine so don't expect restraint". Being from St Emilion it is 77% merlot. After Sideways merlot's reputation will never be the same but let's not forget both St Emilion and Pomerol produce world class merlot! The chateau holds a Grand Cru Classe for its red blend.

For Dubai residents, Le Clos stocks Magrez's 2004 and 2005 Chateau Pape Clement, the most famous chateau in his stable.

Compare this to our review of another 2006 St Emilion (non Grand Cru Classe though): Chevaliers de Lanezac.

The take: On appearance, a dark red with high transparency, no sediment and low viscosity. On the nose, blackcurrant, oak, cheese, tomatoes and with time it develops a gamey, savoury character. On the attack, initially tannic, peppery, little fruit, and full bodied. It's not strong or alcoholic however. My drinking partner H calls it a "meal in a glass". With a bit more time, notes of spicy fruit pudding, butternut squash soup emerge ... but it still never manages to shake those chewable tannins!

In closing: A full bodied "meal in a glass" that needs a little more time to settle.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10.

Fact corner:

Country: France

Region: St Emilion Grand Cru Classe (AOC)

Producer: Chateau Fombrauge

Vintage: 2006

Grape: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc

Alcohol content: 14.0%

Serving temperature: n/a

Price range: Mid-range

#photo #review #red #stemilion #france #midrange #merlot #2006 #658outof10