1996 Clos Fourtet
By Chateau Clos Fourtet
The 1996 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux
An opulent year for the Right Bank vineyards, the 1996 vintage gave birth to wines of formidable character and longevity. It is a pleasure to revisit the 1996 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet, a wine deeply rooted in the limestone and clay terrains that underpin Saint-Emilion's most revered terroirs.
Navigating a Variable Season
The growing season of '96 was punctuated by variable weather, which ultimately culminated in well-timed dry and sunny conditions just before harvest. This climatic twist allowed for an optimal ripening of the Merlot-dominated blend that defines Clos Fourtet's sensibilities. Picking commenced with precision timing, ensuring that each berry was cradled into wine-making at its peak potency.
The Ensemble of '96: A Symphony of Composure and Complexity
On the approach, this 1996 Clos Fourtet presents itself with garnet hues and an ample bouquet of truffle, tobacco and dark cherry. Elegantly oxidative notes interlace with tertiary complexities as they dance across a palate layered with rich blackcurrant, cedarwood, and a hint of anise. This wine's refined tannins have softened gracefully over the years, while a fresh seam of acidity maintains the structure needed for further mellowing.
With an impressive ability to unite power with poise, this vintage has entered a beautifully resolved stage in its evolution. For fine wine investors looking to add Saint-Emilion allure to their portfolio, the 1996 Clos Fourtet should appear as an engaging proposition—ample in charm and poised for continued grace.
Connoisseur's Summary: A Time-Capsule of Elegance
In summation, this particular offering from Chateau Clos Fourtet is akin to unearthing a time-capsule of elegance—a narrative bottle that tells the story of the '96 season with clarity and depth. Each taste reaffirms its rightful place within the tapestry of Bordeaux's finest vintages—potentially rewarding for both the collector's cellar and the astute investor's portfolio. It epitomises what is most celebrated about Saint-Emilion's capacity for greatness; it is indeed one of those wines that continues to unfurl its chapters as it matures.
Market price (CAD)
$1,830.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
122.22
Scores and tasting notes
On one of the three occasions I tasted the 1996 Clos Fourtet from bottle I rated it outstanding (90 points). The color is a saturated dark ruby. The nose offers up sweet black raspberry and blackberry fruit intermixed with toasty oak and floral scents. It is fleshy, surprisingly expansive and forward for a 1996, with low acidity, and a long, multilayered, fruit-driven finish. The tannin is ripe, and thus the fruit comes forward and the wine is seductive and charming. This wine possesses the weight, richness, and extract to last for 15-20 years, but it should be drinkable early. I would not be surprised for readers to feel my score is too conservative based on how well this wine is showing. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2018.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 22 April 1999