Château Fonréaud Listrac-Médoc 2018 - Cru Bourgeois Supérieur

Progress continues; this is the best-structured and most complex Listrac from its appellation among those we’ve tasted. It offers excellent value for the price.

The structure is tight and well-integrated, with chewy tannins and concentrated blackcurrant fruit, as well as black pepper spice and tarry notes from the oak. It needs time—as was already evident during the primeur tasting—but there is a lot of potential here. 30% new oak and a yield of 40 hl/ha. Tasted twice. 2023–2038

The Chanfreau family's original vineyard has produced a full-bodied wine that displays the firm tannins characteristic of a Listrac. At the same time, the rich fruit typical of the vintage—derived in equal parts from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon—is prominent, offering good aging potential.

Delicious aromas of dried mushrooms and forest floor, with blackcurrant and dried leaves. There are also hints of dried citrus zest. It is medium-bodied with firm, refined tannins. Best enjoyed starting in 2022.

This is a recurring theme that’s starting to become quite noticeable… wines from the Chanfreau vineyards are often significantly influenced by oak. It doesn’t really bother me, but I’ve been noticing it for some time now. Here, I detect notes of praline, vanilla, and mocha, followed by hints of black berries. On the palate, the wine is rich, slightly creamy, and perfectly balanced. There’s a beautiful harmony between the freshness of the acidity and the finesse of the tannins. The finish is fruity and lingering. 2023–2036