“The wine of Saint-Émilion is a symbol of French excellence, a wine that embodies tradition and innovation, passion and patience.” – François Hollande
Jean-Louis Frouinard bought the estate in 2006, with the aim of producing a wine of great quality while respecting the environment and the traditions of the Saint-Émilion region.
Château Franc La Rose uses around 70% Cabernet Franc and 30% Merlot. The wine is vinified in stainless-steel vats before being aged in French oak barrels for 12 months.
On the nose, it gives off a lovely woody blackcurrant.
On the palate, the wood is ample and dominant, but I personally very much enjoyed the balance that emerges. The red fruits aren’t, to my mind, quite so omnipresent — contrary to what I’ve read elsewhere.
The mark left by this wine is nonetheless subtle and lightly pronounced; then, as if to remind you that it’s a lord of Saint-Émilion, a little touch of acidity comes along to wake up your palate.
You will have to wait, though, for it to express itself a little more — you can feel it’s holding back. Keep it in the cellar and let your patience be rewarded by this lovely cru.
At around €20, this wine offers interesting value for money. It’s one of my favourites — I love this wine.
Note: The label is particularly well crafted, with roses highlighting the wine’s name. I love it…
Leave a Reply