The Winery Says:

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History of the Winery:

Chateau Fonbadet is on an outstanding vineyard site located north of the tiny village of Saint-Lambert. It forms an enclave among the finest great growths in the Pauillac appellation.

During the Middle Ages, Fonbadet owed allegiance to the seigneury of Chateau Latour, and everything seems to indicate that vines have been grown there for a very long time. However, written proof of Fonbadet’s winegrowing vocation dates “only” from just before the French Revolution.

The château changed hands several times thereafter, passing into several families who left a strong mark on the region. Pierre Gères de Loupes, Sous-Préfet of Lesparre and Justice of the Peace in Pauillac, purchased the estate in the early 19th century. Records show that it belonged to the widows Clarke and Chancel at the end of the Second Empire.

Chateau Fonbadet has managed to stay independent and family-owned despite the appetite of the prestigious estates that surround it. It has been in the family of the present owner, Pierre Peyronie, for over half a century.

Vintage & Winemaker:

Pierre Peyronie’s approach to winemaking is just as traditional. “Wine is a reflection of the soil, but also the work of the winemaker. We don’t make wine by computer here. We like to give nature maximum leeway and respect what the Good Lord has given us. We don’t “manufacture” wine. Some people like to play around with temperatures during fermentation. They heat the wine, cool it down and concentrate it by reverse osmosis. What has the world come to? It seems to me that this all tends toward standardised wines that all resemble one another… At Fonbadet, every vintage is different from the previous one … “

Bordeaux:

Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery » or so goes the old adage. Throughout the wine world, the name Bordeaux is whispered in hushed tones. This blessed region, this garden of Eden for connoisseurs of great wines is quite simply the best in the world. No other country can claim the track record or the large number of impressive wines produced by the South-West corner of France. The exceptional quality of Bordeaux wines, from the world famous reds to the delicate dry whites and luscious dessert wines, surpasses even the wildest dreams. Myriad vineyards, exceptional terroir, centuries of expertise and classic grape varieties all combine to create that special Bordeaux magic touch. Welcome to the world of Bordeaux! Most of the grapes grown in the Bordeaux region for red wine are Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc which give vigour, tannin and good keeping qualities, and Merlot which brings softness and suppleness. White wines are elaborated from Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle.