Decanter World Wine Awards: Silver Medal for a delicious wine from a rare grape, made by the historic Château Fontareche, Corbières, one of the great estates of the Languedoc: case of six delivered

Decanter World Wine Awards 2024: Silver Medal

Château Fontarèche is one of the most historic estates in the Languedoc, having been in the Mignard family since 1642. Fontarèche, which takes its name from the Latin ‘fonte erecto’ (the fountain that springs forth), is one of the great wine estates of Languedoc. In the inventories of the archbishopric of Narbonne, the presence of vines in Fontarèche can be seen from 1350.

Here, one could say that for almost forever, 160 hectares of vines have flourished, half of which are classified as AOP Corbières. Its location makes it a Château where life is good. The Canal du Midi, the mediaeval city of Carcassonne, the Cathar Castles and the Mediterranean Sea are located only a few kilometers away. The wines they make are similarly good, delicious—and extremely interesting.

This their award-winning Picapolle Noir is distinctive, structured, supple and expressive, demonstrating why this unusual variety is worth seeking out. This magnificent grape variety has written records dating from the 16th century in Languedoc and the Rhône Valley, but is probably much older. Pure Mediterranean in style, and late ripening, it is a rich, perfumed wine which pairs beautifully with pork and veal.

Awarding their Silver Medal, the Decanter judges note: ‘Perfumed nose, black fruits, cassis, plum, slight lifted violet floral notes and mineral undertones. Ripe tannins, light on the palate.’ It is a light garnet red. On the nose, notes of redcurrant enhanced by green pepper and mint. The palate is rounded yet fresh, structured around lively tannins that gain in softness on a finish tinged by red fruits and spices of the nose. It does not require ageing, yet it can be cellared for five years.

70% Piquepoul Noir, 30% Carignan.

Château Fontareche, Picapolle, 2022, Corbières, Languedoc-Roussillon. Case of six bottles.

RRP £100. CCUK £87 delivered (UK mainland).