Chateau Clos Fourtet   Clos Fourtet

2015 Clos Fourtet

By Chateau Clos Fourtet

2015 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux

Amongst a tapestry of venerable vintages, the 2015 Clos Fourtet articulates an eloquent vignette of what makes Saint-Émilion's terroir so distinguished. The impeccable 2015 season in Bordeaux was marked by a felicitous confluence of climatic serendipity and viticultural prowess. Prowess coming from the esteemed Chateau Clos Fourtet, a beacon of quality on the Right Bank.

 

A Vintage of Celestial Concord

The harmonious weather pattern prevailing throughout 2015 bestowed upon Saint-Émilion enviable conditions that were seized with deftness by the team at Chateau Clos Fourtet. Propitious spring blossoms leading to an optimal fruit set, meticulous canopy management under the gaze of a benevolent sun, and judicious harvesting decisions all culminated in a vintage whose profundity whispers tales of the year's generosity.

 

The Quintessence of Terroir

Encapsulating the essence of its limestone provenance, the 2015 Clos Fourtet speaks in hushed tones of dark cherries and blackberries ensconced in an embrace of refined oak. Supple on entry, layers unfold revealing hints of aniseed and dark chocolate. The heart of this wine beats with a composed rhythm that echoes across an extended finish enveloped by silky tannins that suggest age-worthiness—an imperative consideration for fine wine investors cognizant of longevity and potential appreciation.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that commenter collectors who have laid down provisions of this exceptional elixir will be eminently satisfied with their auspicious decision as this vintage continues its evolution in bottle. As one peruses through years past, one might find themselves seduced by the 2015 vintage as it stands out with its distinct expression—a testament to its origin and epoch.

For enthusiasts and connoisseurs seeking to diversify their portfolios with storied bottles, the 2015 Clos Fourtet is undeniably deserving of attention. As is often seen, investment in superlative years from remarkable estates can yield profound dividends both on the palate and in value.

Current market price

£910.00

12x75cl

Highest score

97

POP score

53.53

Scores and tasting notes

96-97

This is very velvety and flamboyant with a sexy mouthfeel and rich and delicious fruit. Exotic and more-ish. All there. So much fun to taste.

James Suckling - jamessuckling.com

94-97

Enticing, with raspberry, plum and boysenberry fruit taking hold from the start, followed by lively spice and black tea notes. The finish is threaded with a fine chalky spine. Focused and refined.—J.M.

Wine Spectator - James Molesworth - winespectator.com

95-97

The 2015 Clos Fourtet is a blend of 90% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc, and it was picked between 18 September and 12 October. It has a voluminous bouquet with sweet cassis and blueberry aromas, rather smudged with violets coming through with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with rounded tannin, ripe and voluptuous, dark chocolate infusing the red and black fruit with a touch of mint on the structured, graceful finish. What a fabulous Saint Emilion from Mathieu Cuvelier and his team - Clos Fourtet with breeding and class. It deserves 5-8 years in bottle.

Neal Martin - eRobertParker.com, #224, April 2016

94

The Cabernet Sauvignon is always a key feature of this wine, and it’s the case again here in 2015, providing structure and backbone. This is a little closed, but has the intensity, limestone-derived freshness and sheer class to age well in bottle. Drink: 2022-30

Tim Atkin - timatkin.com

94

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Clos Fourtet has lifted menthol notes on the nose over a core of chocolate-covered cherries, dried mulberries, baked plums and potpourri plus a touch of cloves. Medium-bodied and very firm with lovely ripe, fine-grained tannins and plenty of freshness, it finishes long and perfumed.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 21 February 2018

17

A Stéphane Derenoncourt wine. Lively and fresh on the nose. Great balance and fruit. Dry on the end but very classic.

Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com

Vintage performance