Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/913027
36 { THE SOMM JOURNAL } DECEMBER/JANUARY 2017/2018 { packaging } "Our enologists specialize in Bordeaux wines and work closely together each vintage to get the best and finest wine quality." —Hugh Dutheillet de Lamothe, Owner of Château Fonfroide Centuries Behind the Label WITH AN UPDATED NEW LOOK, CHÂTEAU FONFROIDE SHOWCASES THREE HUNDRED YEARS OF TRADITION by Karen Moneymaker IT'S BEEN SAID it isn't what we do once in a while that shapes our successes: It's what we do consistently. With three cen - turies of history under the cork, Château Fonfroide has enjoyed a stretch of success- ful years longer than most wineries have even existed. The château was originally purchased by the Dutheillet de Lamothe family in 1676, and was revitalized and rebuilt 300 years later when Bernard Dutheillet de Lamothe took charge of the estate in 1976. His meticulous work to restore the vineyards and modernize the winemaking facilities created the version of Château Fonfroide that's seen today. Located on the top of a hillside that rises above the left bank of the Durèzes—a tribu - tary that meanders off the Dordogne River— Château Fonfroide is nestled in the heart of the Entre-Deux-Mers region of Bordeaux. The Château's architecture is exceptional and known in the region for its beauty, with the original cellar—built in 1777—looking out on the majestic courtyard complete with two picturesque fountains. In 1988, Bernard's son, Hugh Dutheillet de Lamothe, finished his studies in law and agriculture and began working with his father at the family estate, where he has expanded the vineyards from 20 hectares in 1991 to 75 hectares in 2009. With a track record for such steadfast consistency, any changes—no matter how small—are a big deal for this family-owned producer. Starting with the 2016 vintage, Château Fonfroide has unveiled a new label that will be seen on its offerings of Bordeaux red, white, and rosé. TASTING NOTES Château Fonfroide 2016 Bordeaux Blanc This wine leads with a complex and powerful nose of citrus and exotic fruits (Bosc pear, papaya, and nectarine). On the palate, it is fresh and well balanced with an aromatic mouthful of peach, grape - fruit pith, and citrus blossom. Les Grands Chais de France has been the exclusive distributor for Château Fonfroide for more than 30 years. Starting with the 2016 vintage (at right, next to previous packag- ing), Château Fonfroide has unveiled a new label for its offer- ings of Bordeaux red, white, and rosé. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHÂTEAU FONFROIDE