2011 Côtes du Rhône Château de Fonsalette

2011 Côtes du Rhône – Château de Fonsalette

Description

Owned by Emmanuel Reynaud, the visionary behind Château Rayas, Château de Fonsalette is renowned for crafting Côtes du Rhône wines of remarkable complexity and finesse. The 2011 vintage, marked by a cooler and more balanced growing season, has produced a wine of beautiful elegance, fresh acidity, and a superb aromatic profile. This vintage perfectly showcases the estate’s distinctive style, combining richness, silkiness, and precision.

Blend

• Grenache: Provides bright red fruit flavors and a silky texture.

• Cinsault: Adds lightness and elegance.

• Syrah: Contributes structure and spicy depth.

Aged in old oak foudres, this wine preserves fruit purity and aromatic expression, avoiding excessive oak influence.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Bright ruby with slight garnet reflections.

• Nose: Delicately perfumed with aromas of raspberry, crisp cherry, and violet, complemented by hints of white pepper, garrigue, and black olive. As it evolves, subtle notes of leather and forest floor emerge, adding depth.

• Palate: Elegant and fluid on entry, marked by fresh acidity and fine, integrated tannins. The balance between pure fruit, gentle spice, and a touch of minerality leads to a long, graceful finish.

Aging Potential

Now at optimal maturity, the 2011 Côtes du Rhône de Fonsalette can continue to evolve for another 4 to 6 years, gaining further complexity and depth.

Food Pairings

A versatile wine that pairs beautifully with:

• Veal chop with morel mushrooms

• Duck breast with cherries

• Roast lamb with Provençal herbs

• Aged cheeses like Saint-Marcellin or Brie de Meaux