Who makes it
Pierre and Marie-Claude Fontaneil created Domaine Fontanel in 1989 through a union of their two families. Elodie and Matthieu Collet now own the domaine, with Pierre remaining as their guide. Its wines move across Côtes Catalanes, Côtes du Roussillon, Maury and Rivesaltes, from a Viognier white to still reds and a fortified wine.
Where it grows
Tautavel lies in the foothills of the Corbières mountains in northern Catalonia. The appellation names on the bottles divide the range by wine type and origin. Initium Blanc is a Côtes Catalanes wine made from Viognier. Cistes and Prieuré are Côtes du Roussillon reds, while Rivesaltes Ambré is a fortified wine. Maury also belongs to the domaine's portfolio.
What they make
Initium Blanc is 100% Viognier from Côtes Catalanes, with apricot and peach aromas and freshness.
Cistes 2017 is an equal blend of Grenache and Syrah. Its nose carries thyme, liquorice, vanilla and cocoa; the palate is warm and powerful, ending on a mineral note.