Fronsac und Canon-Fronsac

Bordeaux is a class society. The supposedly “smaller” appellations here have something highly interesting to offer. Fronsac and Canon Fronsac, for example, have always produced wines with fine fruit, distinctiveness and individual expression. And, thanks to modernization of the estates, the quality has risen sharply over the last 20 years.

Merlot dominates

Fronsac is located on the right bank of the Dordogne, separated from the more famous Pomerol only by the basin of the side river, Isle. As in Pomerol, Merlot clearly sets the tone in assemblages here, with a proportion of up to 85 percent. Cabernet Franc – the area’s second most important variety – Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec are used to supplement. In contrast to the more velvety Pomerol crus, which as a result of global warming have become almost opulent, growths from Fronsac are still robust, balanced and fresh.

A locale steeped in history

Fronsac has a distinctly hilly terrain, although the hills only reach up to 80 metres above sea level. The meadows and woods that surround the vineyards contribute to a complete ecosystem. The soils consist primarily of loam, sand and gravel. The Canon Fronsac AOC is located entirely within the Fronsac AOC and includes the sites on the river, where a massive limestone base determines the terroir. Nonetheless, it is difficult to distinguish a stylistic difference between the wines of the two appellations, even for connoisseurs.

In the middle ages, Fronsac played a far more significant role than neighbouring Pomerol. In the time of Charlemagne (747-814), a mighty fortress was situated here. Even though the fort has long disappeared, Fronsac still has many churches and castles that are valuable to architectural history. The wines from Fronsac also enjoyed more prestige than those from Pomerol well into the 19th century.