INTRODUCING
château MOULIN PEY-LABRIE

by Dixon Brooke

Do any of you know the difference between Fronsac and Canon-Fronsac? Don’t worry; I didn’t either until I discovered the wines of Grégoire and Bénédicte Hubau of Château Moulin Pey-Labrie. The village of Fronsac sits on a big bend in the Gironde River on the right bank of Bordeaux, just west of Pomerol as the crow flies. Grégoire and Bénédicte manage a property that extends across both appellations. Canon-Fronsac is known for its limestone hillsides (think Saint Émilion but way steeper) and Fronsac is known for more gravelly, gently rolling hills (more like the Médoc). The Hubaus began making wine in 1988, and I really fell for their style. They are heroes of the natural wine circuit in France, and they make Bordeaux that range from fun and playful to very serious. You’ll recognize the touch of famed wine artist Michel Tolmer on their Château Moulin labels. I hope you enjoy getting to know these wines as much as I have.

2010 Fronsac
“CuvÉe Piverts”
ChÂteau Moulin

This pure Merlot was bottled with zero sulfur dioxide, so keep it cool! Dark, silky, and fresh, no rough edges, dangerously good! Bordeaux doesn’t have to wear a stiff suit
and tie. This is a perception changer.

$28.00 per bottle $302.40 per case

2009 Fronsac • Château Moulin

This is the wine that first turned me on to the property. From the lower slopes of the limestone hillsides around the main winery, it is raised for eighteen months in older barrels. Smooth, fruity, balanced, and instantly likeable.

$28.00 per bottle $302.40 per case

2006 Fronsac • Château Haut Lariveau

This property is blessed with a treasure trove of older vintages, and we’ve taken full advantage. The Haut Lariveau is from flatter, gravelly terrain, and this 2006 is a sweet caress of soft strawberries and rose petals—a real treat right now.

$35.00 per bottle $378.00 per case

2005 Canon Fronsac
Château Moulin Pey-Labrie

This is the Hubaus’ flagship cuvée from their steepest limestone hillsides, a blend of Merlot and 5% Malbec raised in barrel and built for the long haul. Dark, rich, chewy, with power and freshness—this is their longest ager.

I urge you to give the Château a chance. You’ll be charmed and impressed and glad to make their acquaintance.

$46.00 per bottle $496.80 per case