Concentrated black fruits intermixed with spring flowers, some high class, subtle toasty oak, graphite and a touch of blackberry and cassis all jump from the glass of this dense, full-bodied, formidably endowed, massive wine. It needs a good 5-7 years of cellaring. This could turn out to be one of the longest-lived wines ever made at Fonplegade, lasting 25-30 or more years. Drink: 2018 - 2048

This is an absolutely brilliant wine, and probably the best to date from this American-owned Chateau, which has been completely renovated and is now enjoying a resurrection/renaissance in quality.
-Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #205 Feb 2013

(92-94 pts)
2010: Now American-owned, Fonplegade has been pushing the envelop of high quality over recent vintages. The full-bodied, powerful 2010 reveals intense, concentrated red and black fruit characteristics, undeniable minerality, a perfumed style and authoritative flavors that linger on the palate. The tannins are noticeable, so this wine will benefit from 5-6 years of cellaring and keep for at least two decades.

Concentrated black fruits intermixed with spring flowers, some high class, subtle toasty oak, graphite and a touch of blackberry and cassis all jump from the glass of this dense, full-bodied, formidably endowed, massive wine. It needs a good 5-7 years of cellaring. This could turn out to be one of the longest-lived wines ever made at Fonplegade, lasting 25-30 or more years. This is an absolutely brilliant wine, and probably the best to date from this American-owned Chateau, which has been completely renovated and is now enjoying a resurrection/renaissance in quality.

Intensely fruity nose with dark plums, blackberries and blueberries. Some pleasant animal notes and vanilla. Full-bodied and very softly textured. Beautifully managed tannins and good length. Lots of wood still. Chewy. Need a year or two in bottle to resolve the tannins. Try in 2015.
-www.jamessuckling.com, 'Tasting Report: 2010's Greatness Across The Board in Bordeaux', 17 Feb 2013

(90-91 pts)
Focused and precise, with pretty dark fruits and hints of vanilla. Full and silky. Very attractive.

Rich and opulent on the glycerine-rich nose, but very pure with ripe cassis, dark plum and blueberry. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe, assertive tannins with a citrus edge, touches of orange peel interlacing the tannic finish that is a little heady in alcohol, but at the same time, quite stylish and pure. Tasted April 2011.