Definition: Fronsac AOC

A Bordeaux appellation in the Libourne region. Production area located on the right bank of the Dordogne, north-west of Libourne, more precisely within the communes of Fronsac and Saint-Michel-de-Fronsac in the Gironde department. Classified as a communal AOC in 1964. Area under production: just over 800 hectares for the Fronsac AOC and 300 hectares for the Canon-Fronsac AOC. Black grape varieties: mainly Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Côt (or Malbec) and Merlot. Only red wines are produced. It can be kept for several years to develop and up to 20 years for the best vintages. Ideal serving temperature: 16 to 17°C. Pair with: game birds, red meat or Bordelaise-style cep mushrooms. In this appellation, Château de la Rivière is well worth a visit. It is a 16th-century château with 3 hectares of cellars in "former limestone quarries", which are now used to store their wine. Excellent value for money and enjoyment.