• Fronsac At Its Best 
• Pomerol & St. Émilion's Little Brother 
• "Utterly Irresistible" - Antonio Galloni, 93 Vinous 
• 97pt Vintage ~Wine Advocate
• Free Shipping on 12 or More Bottles 

About the Wine

Don't want to break the bank on Pomerol and Saint Emilion? Try the little brother of the Right Bank, Fronsac. Among all of the great wines from 2016, Antonio Galloni had this to say, "Dalem is one of the most overt, voluptuous wines of the year. I find it utterly irresistible."

Fronsac is an appellation located only a few kilometers from Libourne, neighboring Saint-Emilión and Pomerol. Merlot is the main grape in the region, and it is normally blended with Cabernet Franc. Soils are composed of sandstone and limestone which allows the grapes to withstand higher temperatures. Thanks to that, in warmer vintages, well balanced wines can be founded in this region than in other Bordeaux regions.

Fronsac wines have been improving significantly in recent years with many producers from more recognized appellations like Pauillac and Margaux acquiring vineyards the area. The wines of Fronsac represent some of the best value and  most affordable wines in all of Bordeaux.

Fronsac is home to well-known producers like Michel Rolland's Chateau Fontenil - consultant to Bellefont-Belcier, St-Emilion Grand Cru - and Chateau de la Dauphine.

Chateau Dalem has been the property of the Ruiller family since 1955 when it was acquired by Michel Ruiller, but the origin dates back to 1610, making it one of the oldest Chateaux in Bordeaux! In addition to Chateau Dalem, the family owns Chateau de la Huste and they produce Chateau la Longua.

This charming 98-acre estate, planted with old vines of about 45 years old, mostly Merlot, some Cabernet Franc and Malbec, soils composed of a mix of clay and limestone is the terroir that results in these great wines.

Tasting Notes

 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Deep ruby ​​with purple reflections. Intense aromas of red and black fruits, with notes of wood and vanilla. On the palate, it is well rounded and has a powerful entrance. Pair this wine with all types of classic meat dishes, roasted, braised, and grilled dishes, and Asian food.

Critical Reviews

The 2016 Dalem has an intense bouquet of well-defined black cherry, raspberry coulis, and marmalade aromas. The palate is well balanced with juicy ripe black fruit, a fine bead of acidity, plenty of freshness, and fine attack on the finish. This is an excellent Dalem and comes recommended. Fronsac at its best. ~ 93 Neal Martin Wine Advocate

The 2016 Dalem is a flamboyant, unctuous wine. Super-ripe black cherry, chocolate, blackberry, grilled herbs, menthol, licorice, and incense all run though this opulent, unapologetically full-throttle Fronsac. Dalem is one of the most overt, voluptuous wines of the year. I find it utterly irresistible. Tasted two times. ~ 93 Antonio Galloni Vinous

Dark in color, the wine exudes flowers, deep, red, and black pit fruits, silky textures, balance, freshness, and length. The silky textured finish brings everything together. ~93 The Wine Cellar Insider