Viniou Reviews
La Closerie de Fourtet 2014, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, is a fine expression of Right Bank Bordeaux. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, with Cabernet Franc and occasionally a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, it embodies the classic profile of the region. The 2014 vintage benefited from a mild spring and a long, temperate growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, resulting in balanced tannins and fresh acidity. The vinification combines traditional and modern techniques, with meticulous sorting, fermentation in stainless steel, and ageing in French oak barrels, about a third of which are new, lending subtle toasty and spicy notes to the finished wine.
The Saint-Émilion appellation, located on the limestone plateau and clay-limestone slopes east of Libourne, is renowned for its centuries-old vineyards and UNESCO World Heritage status. The soils here—rich in clay over limestone—give Merlot-based wines their depth, silkiness, and ageing potential, while the continental climate provides warm days and cool nights, favouring slow, even ripening. With its knotted history dating back to Roman times and a unique classification system, Saint-Émilion stands as a benchmark for Merlot-driven Bordeaux elegance and complexity.
La Closerie de Fourtet 2014 reveals aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and blackberry, layered with hints of cedar, graphite, and gentle vanilla from barrel ageing. On the palate, it offers refined tannins, fresh acidity, and a lingering finish with spicy undertones. Such a wine pairs beautifully with classic French fare—think roast lamb with herbs, beef tournedos with shallot sauce, or duck breast with red fruit reduction. It also complements more local, earthy dishes, such as confit de canard or a mushroom and truffle risotto.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for about an hour to open up its aromatic complexity. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to highlight its structure and finesse. This Saint-Émilion Grand Cru will certainly reward thoughtful food pairings and promises another decade of graceful ageing.
