1997 La Fleur Petrus
By Chateau La Fleur Petrus
1997 La Fleur Petrus from Chateau La Fleur Petrus, Pomerol, Bordeaux
Embarking upon a journey through the seasoned rows of Chateau La Fleur Petrus, one uncovers the narrative of the 1997 vintage—a tale of excellence woven into the rich tapestry of Pomerol's wine heritage. The '97 La Fleur Petrus is a distinguished chapter in this illustrious history, enveloping connoisseurs with its matured radiance and stately presence.
A Testament to Time: The ’97 Vintage Unveiled
As with any vintage assessment, it is paramount to appreciate that Bordeaux and Mother Nature's dance can yield vintages that are sui generis—the 1997 La Fleur Petrus is one such spectacle. This particular year was marked by an early and unevenly distributed heatwave, prompting some vineyards to haste toward harvest. Yet, Chateau La Fleur Petrus managed to sculpt from these climatic twists a wine that showcases resilience, depth, and surprising youthfulness for an investor's repertoire.
Evolving Elegance: Sensorial Chronicle
On approach, the bouquet unfurls with beguiling subtlety—a mélange of truffle, softened leather and a whisper of cigar box—testimonial of its evolution. Flavours unfurl on the palate with grace; plumed fruits dipped in a lattice of fleshy tannins reveal layers of complexity. Beneath them lies an earthy foundation which anchors the wine, expressing the pivotal Merlot dominance synonymous with Pomerol’s hallowed ground.
This vintage deftly transcends mere anticipation; it begets investment both sensory and fiscal. The 1997 La Fleur Petrus has transitioned into its secondary plateau whereupon mature nuances are savoured, indicative of Pomerol’s scholarly approach to viticulture and vinification.
In summing up this rhapsodic exploration of the '97 offering from Chateau La Fleur Petrus, one can assert it stands as a paragon for collectors and investors alike. A wine that encapsulates the intricacies of an irregular season yet triumphs as one profoundly investable bottle—a treasure nestled in the regal lineage that is Bordeaux’s Pomerol.
Market price (GBP)
£1,580.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
175.56
Scores and tasting notes
This wine is sexy, opulently-textured, full-flavored, with low acidity as well as delicious, up-front appeal. Lavish cherry fruit intermixed with mocha, dried herbs, spice box, and toasty oak are present in this medium to full-bodied, fruit-driven wine. Already evolved, complex, and tasty, it will age well for 10-12 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 20 April 2000
First tasted at Corney & Barrow in Sept-00 when it displayed an elegant classy nose. Then in Tokyo against the 1990 in Apr-04: a feminine sweet nose, quite floral on this occasion with cherry to the fore. Very fresh on the palate, good acidity and vibrant. Quite feminine, open with a minerally finish. A nice flourish of wild-strawberry on the finish. Not a sophisticated wine and drinking now. Tasted April 2004.
Neal Martin - Wine Advocate - Wine Journal