90 Jeb Dunnuck - The Rhone Report

"All cabernet from the Pic Saint Loup region (due to French laws, it can't claim the region however), the 2009 Chateau Fontanes Vin de Pays d'Oc les Traverses de Fontanes is a serious value, showing rich cassis, tobacco, mint, and garrigue like aromas, medium to full body, a round, supple, yet rich texture, and good grip on the finish. Even better on the second day, with a focused texture that pairs beautifully with its rich fruit, this beauty should be consumed over the coming 6-8 years or so." 90 Points - Jeb Dunnuck - Rhone Report

WINEMAKING:
"Hand-harvested and all fruit is de-stemmed, natural fermentation takes place at low temperatures, punch downs and pump-overs take place regularly, wine is aged for 6 months to one year in stainless" -Importer

WINERY:
"Though Cyriaque is within the boundaries of the appellation Pic St-Loup, the lion’s share of his production is Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape varietal that is outside of the constraints set for the A.O.C. in the Languedoc. This means that in lieu of getting an A.O.C. cru status, he must take a Vin de Pays d’Oc designation. The trade-off for Cyriaque is that he gets to make his wines his way, and we, in turn, get an incredible price—a mutually beneficial trade-off. Being rebellious seems to come naturally to a man of such innate talent, and the elegance of his wines are proof enough in a region where bigger is often considered better. Make no mistake, raw terroir and spicy garrigue abound in these wines, with rich, juicy fruit and silky tannins." -Importer