Chateau Plaisance Penavayre | "Le Rouge," Négrette Blend | Fronton, SW France | 2020

We’re taking a trip to the lesser-known Fronton AOP in southwestern France, where a rich history of unmanicured vineyards dates back to the Crusades. 

Château Plaisance is currently in the capable hands of Marc Penavayre. Since 1991, Marc has expanded his father's property, cultivating organic and biodynamic vineyards since 2005 as well as replanting with massal selections.

The star of Château Plaisance is Négrette, affectionately known as "the little black grape," with roots traced back to Cyprus' Mavro grape. Marc infuses this local gem with Syrah and a touch of Cab Franc, creating Fronton Rouge—a deep, herbal, and plush wine. Inky richness perfect for winter comfort!

To read (legendary importer) Becky Wasserman’s personal account of discovering Marc’s wines, CLICK HERE.  

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Pair with: hearty stews, succulent meats, and roasted veggies

🍇 Grape Variety: 65% Negrette, 20% Syrah, 10% Cabernet Franc

🌱 Farming: Organic, Practicing Biodynamic

🍾 Winemaking: Berries are de-stemmed. Native yeast fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Aged for ~18 months in a combo of cement, stainless steel, and used barrels. No fining or filtration. Minimal SO2.

🧑🏼‍🌾 Winemaker: Marc Penavayre

🌎 Region: Fronton, France

🌡 Serve: Room Temperature; decanting recommended