# Château Tessendey Fronsac (2018)

- **Producer:** Château Tessendey
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot, Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, black cherry, vanilla, cedar, spice, earth

## About this wine

Château Tessendey Fronsac is a red wine from the Fronsac appellation in Bordeaux, France. Produced by Château Tessendey, it is primarily a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The estate is a family-run property with a history dating back to the 18th century, situated on hillsides with clay and limestone soils. The Fronsac appellation is known for producing wines with aging potential. The 2018 vintage benefited from favorable weather conditions, leading to good grape maturity.

## Interesting facts

- Family estate since the 18th century.
- Fronsac's clay-limestone soils are key.
- Vineyards sit around 30 meters above sea level.
- Uses Lutte Raisonnée (sustainable farming).

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and firm tannins complement the richness of proteins like lamb and beef, while its fruit notes can harmonize with savory sauces. The earthy undertones of mushrooms and certain cheeses find a natural connection with the wine's complexity.

## Wine making process

Château Tessendey Fronsac is produced using Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes. The winemaking process involves fermentation in thermo-regulated cement tanks, followed by maceration for three to five weeks. The wine then undergoes aging for 12 to 18 months in French oak barrels, with a proportion of new oak used. Sustainable farming practices, known as Lutte Raisonnée, are employed in the vineyards. The estate's philosophy centers on precise viticulture and winemaking to reflect the terroir.