Chateau Villars, Fronsac, Bordeaux, France, 2011
83% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon
SUBSTANTIAL BLACK PLUM, CHOCOLATE & FRESH COFFEE GROUNDS, RIPE & MATURE
Fronsac, like its more famous neighbor, Pomerol, produces wines which are among the most Merlot-centric of Bordeaux. Here, it isn’t unusual for the grape to account for 90% or more of a blend, with its father, Cabernet Franc, and brother, Cabernet Sauvignon providing blink-or-you’ll-miss-it cameos. This example is both typical and impressive in its lushness of dark fruit and classically chocolatey Merlot-ish-ness. Thierry Gaudrie has been at the helm of his seven-generation family estate for almost thirty years and combines his passion and oenological education to coax optimal quality from the vineyards’ excellent terroir.
Serving Suggestion: Coffee-rubbed standing rib roast w/ crispy grilled Brussels & frites w/ gravy. Black lentil dosas w/ fried potato & onion.
