At a glance

Producer

Château de Fesles

Region

Bonnezeaux, Loire Valley, France

Grape variety

Chenin Blanc

Wine type

Dessert

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Sweet

Typical price

$35-$50

Tasting profile

Rich honeyed apricot, quince jelly, candied citrus peel, nutty almond, with pronounced minerality and vibrant acidity

Evolution: Will develop more complex tertiary notes of dried fruits, caramel, and subtle spice over next 5-10 years

At peak: Balanced sweetness and acidity with deep complexity, long finish, and nuanced spice.

Structure

Acidity

High and vibrant, characteristic of Chenin Blanc from Loire

Tannins

Minimal to none (white dessert wine)

Alcohol

Typically 13-14% ABV

Aging potential

20-25+ years with ideal cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2035

Optimal window

2022 to 2040

Current status

Approaching optimal maturity

Current condition

The wine is showing excellent balance of sweetness, acidity and complexity with some tertiary notes developing but still retaining fresh fruit.

2016 was an excellent vintage for Bonnezeaux with warm dry conditions producing ripe grapes with concentrated sugars balanced by high natural acidity, allowing long aging potential and development of complex tertiary aromas over time.

Food pairing

Foie gras, blue cheese, fruit tarts, nutty desserts, or as an accompaniment to rich creamy dishes

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C / 50-54°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of sustainable viticulture techniques such as cover cropping, reduced chemical usage, water conservation measures in vineyard; natural yeast fermentation

Château de Fesles employs sustainable viticulture practices, focusing on soil health and biodiversity though lacking formal organic or biodynamic certification. Local production limits carbon footprint compared to New World imports. Packaging is traditional but no evidence of lightweight or eco-packaging. Overall sustainability is solid but not at top-tier certifications.