Chateau de Fonsalette Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2012

Chateau de Fonsalette

• Currently run by Emmanuel Reynaud, Chateau de Fonsalette was founded by the legendary Louis Reynaud in 1945.
• Just outside the Chateauneuf-de-Pape appellation, these first-class Cotes-du-Rhones are treated with the same care and respect as their neighbors.
• Limited to just three wines, a blanc, a rouge and a 100% Syrah, these are some of the best and most in-demand wines in Cotes-du-Rhone, defying what can sometimes be seen as a humble appellation status.
• Biodiversity is cherished at this 120-hectare estate, of which only 12 hectares are planted to vine. The rest of the land holds olive trees, woodlands, and other types of agriculture.
• Emmanuel's wines, whether they are from Fonsalette, Rayas, or des Tours, all hold the same signature complexity, depth, and meaningful nature. Chateau de Fonsalette defies its appellation.

The spirit of Jacques Reynaud, the godfather of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, is always present at the storied estate of Chateau Rayas. When this legendary founder died suddenly in 1997, his wife asked their nephew, Emmanuel Reynaud, to take the reins at both Chateau Rayas and Chateau de Fonsalette. Already making wines at his father's Chateau des Tours, Emmanuel agreed.

Somewhat reclusive and to be found working his vineyards at most any time of day, every day, Emmanuel does not revel in the fame and notoriety that come with making such sought-after and acclaimed wines. Instead, he continues to quietly but successfully carry the mantle of his famous forebears, producing hauntingly aromatic wines at his three estates: Chateau Rayas, Chateau des Tours, and Chateau de Fonsalette.

Just outside Chateauneuf-du-Pape, near the village of Lagarde-Pareol in the Cates-du-Rhone appellation, Chateau de Fonsalette was purchased by Emmanuel's grandfather, Louis Reynaud, in 1945. It holds 300 acres, 30 of which are planted with Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah for reds, and Grenache Blanc, Clairette and Marsanne for whites. The estate also produces wonderful olive oil.

Quite simply, the three wines of Fonsalette - a blanc, a rouge and a 100% Syrah, which is rare for the region - defy their appellation: They are among the best and most in-demand wines from Cotes-du-Rhone.

There is a clear through line in all the wines produced by Emmanuel - a unique weighty, aromatic, complex, and savory signature of all the wines that places them among the most well-regarded, sought-after bottles of the appellation.