2011 Clos Fourtet, St-Emilion (Pre-Arrival)
SKU #1090854
94-96
points
Wine Enthusiast
A finely balanced wine—its immense tannins are mitigated by the fruit and dark chocolate flavors. It finishes with a hint of smoky wood.
(4/ 2012)
91-94
points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Two consulting oenologists with different philosophies work together at Clos Fourtet. Since Stephane Derenoncourt, a late harvester, and Jean-Claude Barrouet, a much earlier harvester, have joined forces, the results have been exhilarating. This 50-acre vineyard high on the plateau, owned by the Cuvelier family and managed by Tony Balu, had yields of 33 hectoliters per hectare. The 2011, one of the stars of the vintage, is a blend of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. Its opaque purple color is accompanied by notes of graphite, truffles, blackberries and blueberries. Rich and medium to full-bodied with good acidity, sweet, well-integrated tannin and a hint of forest floor, this big, fleshy St.-Emilion should drink well for two decades.
(4/ 2012)
91-94
points
Wine Spectator
Starts slowly, with modest dark plum and blackberry fruit, but then the acidity kicks in and takes the fleshy core and bouncy side notes through the lengthy finish, which has a lovely echo of raspberry.
(4/ 2012)
91-92
points
James Suckling
A wine with super fine tannins and a wonderful depth of fruit for the vintage. Very polished and gorgeous. Full-bodied, yet lovely for the year.
(4/ 2012)
89-92
points
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Fully saturated purple. Floral and mineral notes add perfume and lift to redcurrant and blackberry aromas. Deep flavors of blackberry and cocoa powder are clean and pure, not to mention very long on the aftertaste. Finishes with a very refined mouthfeel and a touch of austerity that suggests this will age slowly and gracefully. Looks to be a very successful 2011.
(5/ 2012)
K&L Notes
*+ Vibrant red fruits, spicy and delicious. This property is right on.
