In Bond Fine Wine. 2016 Clos Fourtet, Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, France. Premier Grand Cru Classé B • Red Bordeaux in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 99/100 (JM). Drinking window: 2024–2056. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Clos Forutet is located on the limestone plateau just outside the walls of Saint Emilion.. The 20 hectare vineyard is in a single block, unusually for Saint Emilion and is farmed biodynamically. Owned by the Cuvelier family since 2001 (who also own Chateau Poujeaux in the Medoc), Clos Fourtet has seen a steady rise in quality under the Cuveliers and the guidance of Stephane Derenoncourt, consulting oenologist. Recet vintages such as 2016, 2018, 2019 and 2022 have received considerably acclaim for their balance of purity of fruity, precision and balance, with a profile that reflects its limestone terroir - floral lift and mineral tension.
Neal Martin (NM) — 95–97/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 28/04/2017 · Drink 2023-2055
The 2016 Clos Fourtet is a blend of 90% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc aged in 60% new oak. It has a generous, well defined licorice-tinged fruit that is very focused. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, blackberry and boysenberry fruit with that salted licorice theme continuing. This Clos Fourtet has impressive concentration, yet there is real elegance and persiste…
Antonio Galloni (AG) — 93–96/100 · Vinous, 25/04/2017
Vivid, creamy, ample and explosive in all of its dimensions, the 2016 Clos Fourtet maintains striking aromatic freshness and tension despite its intensity. All the elements fall into place effortlessly. The final blend is 88% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc. The 2016 spent about four weeks on the skins. New oak is around 60 percent. This is a superb showing from an estate tha…
James Suckling (JS) — 95–96/100 · JamesSuckling.com, 24/03/2017
This is a solid and structured 2016 with fabulous density and freshness. Full-bodied yet vibrant and exciting. Wow. We will see.