
The 2014 Fonplegade is a Bordeaux Blend originating from the Saint Emilion region in Bordeaux, France. With an alcohol content of 14.0%, this red wine has garnered attention for its balance and depth, as reflected in numerous professional reviews.
Decanter awarded this wine an impressive score of 94, describing it as having "lashings of blackberry and liquorice, dark chocolate with a core of freshness." They noted that the wine displayed a level of generosity and finesse comparable to later vintages like 2015 or 2016. Decanter particularly praised the "brilliantly judged oak" and mentioned that Fonplegade's organic and biodynamic practices are evident in this vintage.
James Suckling gave the wine a score of 92, highlighting its "dark-berry and oyster-shell aromas" and "integrated tannins." He pointed out the "almost burnt lemon undertone" and described the wine as "linear and polished." Suckling recommended consuming this wine starting in 2019.
Jeff Leve, also scoring the wine 92, found it to be softer and rounder than anticipated, filled with "ripe, dark red fruits, flowers, licorice, and earthy complexities." However, he did note that the "lush finish ends a bit too quickly."
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated the wine at 91, describing an initially "opaque bouquet" that eventually revealed "blackberry, raspberry, and cedar wood aromas." The review highlighted the wine's "grippy tannin" and a "vigorous finish of redcurrant jam, raspberry, and black pepper," suggesting it has aging potential for over a decade.
Vinous scored the wine 90, noting its "dense blackberry and briary scented bouquet" along with "gritty tannin" and hints of blue fruit. They mentioned a "touch of greenness" in the finish, which they expect will fade with bottle age.
Wine Spectator also rated it 91, appreciating its "succulent core of steeped plum and blackberry notes" with "ganache and licorice snap accents." They mentioned a "lingering mouthwatering feeling" and predicted its potential for long-term cellaring.
Lastly, The Wine Independent awarded it 91 points, describing it as "medium to deep garnet-brick in color" with notes of "kirsch, blackberry preserves, and rosebud tea." They appreciated its "plush and packed" palate with mature black fruit flavors and a "spicy finish."
Overall, the 2014 Fonplegade is a well-regarded Bordeaux Blend that offers a complex and enjoyable drinking experience, praised for its depth, balance, and aging potential.