Experience the elegance of **Fugue de Nénin Pomerol**, the celebrated second wine of Château Nénin, epitomizing the charm of the Pomerol appellation. Crafted predominantly from Merlot (88%) complemented by Cabernet Franc (12%), this wine offers a luscious and approachable profile. Its ruby-red hue with purple tints reveals captivating aromas of black fruits and floral notes. On the palate, expect silky textures with layers of vanilla, pink pepper, and graphite, balanced by vibrant acidity and a lingering, dry finish. Aged in 20–30% new barrels for added complexity, this wine is perfect to enjoy now or cellar for 15–20 years. Ideal for pairing with grilled beef, aged cheeses, or game dishes like duck and pheasant, Fugue de Nénin is a refined introduction to the grandeur of Pomerol wines.
Process & Profile
Fugue de Nénin is the celebrated second wine of Château Nénin, an esteemed estate in Bordeaux's Pomerol appellation. This wine, first introduced in 1997, draws from younger vines planted on sandy-clay soils and terroirs enriched with silica, gravel, and clay. The blend is Merlot-dominant, complemented by Cabernet Franc, reflecting Pomerol's signature style. Sustainable farming practices and meticulous production methods result in a wine that showcases the estate's expertise without requiring extended aging. Aged in 20% new oak barrels, Fugue de Nénin is accessible in its youth but retains the potential to mature gracefully for up to 15-20 years.
Tasting Notes
This wine unveils a stunning ruby color with purple tints. On the nose, expect an inviting bouquet of black cherries, blackcurrant jam, and plums, layered with floral hints of iris and mineral undertones of graphite. The palate delivers a velvety texture, soft tannins, and balanced acidity. Notes of vanilla, pink pepper, and cedar enhance its complexity, culminating in a refreshing minty finish. The wine is both generous and elegant, striking the perfect balance between Pomerol's richness and refinement.
What Makes It Special
Fugue de Nénin distinguishes itself as a harmonious blend that embodies Pomerol's charm while being approachable at a younger age. Its name, inspired by the musical term *fugue*, reflects its role as a thematic continuation of Château Nénin's Grand Vin but with its own unique flair. The Delon family's transformative efforts since acquiring the estate in 1997 have elevated Château Nénin's reputation, ensuring high-quality wines that honor Pomerol's terroir. With its round and silky texture, Fugue de Nénin serves as both an introduction to Château Nénin and a delightful standalone wine.
How to Enjoy
Fugue de Nénin pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted game, and aged cheeses. It enhances dishes like duck, pheasant, or beef bourguignon, complementing their rich flavors with its nuanced profile. For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for 1-2 hours if young, and serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F). Whether savored now or aged for further complexity, this wine promises a luxurious experience reminiscent of Pomerol's finest expressions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fugue de Nenin?
Fugue de Nenin is the second wine produced by Château Nénin in the renowned Pomerol appellation of Bordeaux. It is made predominantly from Merlot (88%) with a smaller proportion of Cabernet Franc (12%), offering a softer, more approachable expression of the estate's style that can be enjoyed earlier than the Grand Vin.
What makes Fugue de Nenin unique?
Fugue de Nenin is crafted from vines planted on sandy-clay soils, which create an elegant and silky wine. It represents an accessible yet authentic introduction to Pomerol wines, showcasing notes of dark cherry, plums, chocolate, and spice. Its name, “Fugue,” reflects its harmonious relationship with the Grand Vin while maintaining its own distinctive identity.
What is the aging potential of Fugue de Nenin?
Fugue de Nenin is approachable in its youth, typically ready to drink after a few years of aging. Its balance of fruit and structure ensures it can be enjoyed within 6-10 years after the vintage date, though some vintages may last longer.
How should Fugue de Nenin be served?
For optimal enjoyment, serve Fugue de Nenin slightly cooler than room temperature, ideally between 59-62.6°F (15-17°C). Decanting the wine for 1-2 hours is recommended to allow its aromas and flavors to fully develop.
What foods pair well with Fugue de Nenin?
This wine pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, including roasted poultry, lamb chops, beef dishes, and earthy mushroom-based meals. Its velvety tannins and rich fruit flavors complement both simple and more complex recipes.
What is the ideal drinking window for Fugue de Nenin?
Fugue de Nenin can be enjoyed relatively young compared to other Pomerol wines. For most vintages, it shows well after just a few years in bottle and continues to develop nicely for about 6-10 years, depending on the vintage.
What distinguishes Fugue de Nenin from Château Nénin's Grand Vin?
Fugue de Nenin is made from younger vines and sandy-clay soils, resulting in a wine that is rounder and less structured than the Grand Vin. It is designed to be enjoyed earlier, while the Grand Vin is known for its power, complexity, and longer aging potential.
Does Fugue de Nenin require decanting?
Yes, it is recommended to decant Fugue de Nenin for about 1-2 hours to soften the tannins and open up the wine's aromatic profile, especially in younger vintages. Older bottles may need less decanting, mainly to remove sediment.
Where is Château Nénin located?
Château Nénin is situated in the prestigious Pomerol appellation, on the Right Bank of Bordeaux. Its vineyards benefit from a mix of clay, sand, and gravel soils, ideal for growing Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
Who owns Château Nénin?
Château Nénin has been part of the Delon family since 1997. The family, also known for owning Léoville Las Cases and other notable estates, has undertaken extensive improvements to enhance the quality of the wines produced at the estate.