Château Fonroque 2019

Conditions were very favorable for this vintage. After a cold January, temperatures in February and March were very mild, leading to early budbreak. Spring was cool and wet, except during the second half of April and June. These delays in spring caused the vines’ growth to slow down.

From the very first day of summer, the change was dramatic, with hot, dry weather that was highly conducive to the development of the grapes’ aromatic and phenolic potential. This was followed by two heat waves—one in late June and another in late July—and a rainy spell in early August, during which we used biodynamic preparations and herbal teas.

These measures helped prevent excessive water stress. Early September remained summer-like. We chose to harvest our Merlot grapes early in order to adapt to the particularly rapid ripening pace and preserve the balance necessary for the refinement of our wines. The result is a rich, harmonious wine with a silky texture. Its classic character makes it one of our great vintages.