Chateau Pontet-Fumet, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, France

Rooted in the heart of Saint-Émilion, the 2016 Château Pontet-Fumet reflects the depth and refinement of Bordeaux’s Right Bank. Crafted from old vines on sand and clay soils, this blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon shows a seamless harmony between fruit, spice, and supple texture.

Product Details:

• Varietal Composition: 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
• Alcohol: 14%
• Soil: Sand and clay
• Vine Age: 50 years
• Yield: 50 hl/ha
• Farming Practices: Sustainable
• Fermentation Vessel: Stainless steel
• Aging: 10 months in 50% new oak and 50% first-passage oak
• Production: 78,000 bottles per year

Sensory Description:

Deep garnet in the glass, the wine opens with aromas of ripe cherry, cocoa, black olive, and toasted hazelnut. The palate is generous yet polished, delivering layers of plum, blackberry, and subtle anise. Mellow tannins frame the mid-palate, while accents of vanilla, chocolate, and applewood spice linger through a smooth and persistent finish. This is a supple, approachable Saint-Émilion with both charm and structure.

Awards & Accolades:

• 88 Points – Wine Spectator: “Juicy and direct, with plum and blackberry fruit leading the way, while light anise and applewood notes add energy through the finish. Accessible now. Drink now through 2025. 4,200 cases made, 400 cases imported.”
• Silver Medal – 2016 Vintage (2019, Concours Mondial de Bruxelles).
• Prix des Vinalies – 2016 Vintage (2018, Vinalies Nationales): “Pourpre est la couleur. Boisé est l'arôme dominant. Fruit rouge est la bouche. Tannique est l'impression finale. L'ensemble est un Saint-Émilion Grand Cru d'un millésime où la nature a été généreuse et que le savoir-faire de l'homme a su maîtriser et accompagner. Il pourra se déguster autour de tous les gibiers à poil.”

Winemaker's Background:

Château Pontet-Fumet is a family-run estate in Saint-Émilion with a focus on sustainable viticulture and respect for tradition. The estate’s 50-year-old vines are rooted in the region’s classic sand and clay soils, producing fruit of concentration and character. With careful vineyard management and thoughtful cellar practices, Pontet-Fumet wines are known for their balance, elegance, and authentic expression of Saint-Émilion terroir.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 16–18 °C in a Bordeaux glass. This versatile red pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, duck breast, grilled beef, or earthy mushroom dishes. It also complements hard cheeses such as Comté or aged Gouda. Enjoy now for its open, generous fruit or cellar for a few more years to appreciate its evolving complexity.

2016 Château Pontet-Fumet stands as a refined example of Saint-Émilion winemaking, fruit-driven yet structured, approachable yet layered, and crafted with care from one of Bordeaux’s most storied regions.