Clos Fourtet 2005

Clos Fourtet is on a roll, having produced a stunning wine in 2003, and an even more brilliant effort in 2005. Stephane Derenoncourt, the consulting oenologist, has plenty with which to work given the fact that this is a relatively large vineyard (50 acres) planted with 85% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc as well as a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon. The inky/blue/purple-colored 2005 boasts an exceptional perfume of acacia flowers, blackberry and blueberry liqueur, graphite, scorched earth, and background oak. The wine possesses a full-bodied texture and abundant quantities of stunningly pure black fruits. The result is a sumptuous St.-Emilion of great concentration, intensity, and overall balance. This prodigious effort looks set for 25-30 years of evolution. Utterly awesome!

The 2005 is a blend of 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc that was cropped at 35hl/ha and raised in 80% new oak for 18 months, which Mathieu Cuvelier said was relatively long for Clos Fourtet. It has an open bouquet with crisp red fruit, oyster shell, black tea and minerals. It is tightly wound and need three to four more years. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins, meaty black fruit and a pleasant savoury finish that needs more weight and persistency. Tasted December 2012.