2001 Clos Fourtet
By Chateau Clos Fourtet
2001 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
The turn of the millennium brought not only excitement but also an exceptional vintage that found its way into the 2001 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet. This darling of Saint-Émilion is a testament to the patient alchemy of nature and the conscientious endeavours of its craftspeople.
Delving into Distinction: A Vintage Appraisal
In the annals of viticulture, certain years are marked by the confluence of elements propitious for engendering wines with remarkable character. The 2001 vintage in Bordeaux was shadowed by the celebrated 2000 millennial harvest, yet it quietly burgeoned into a beacon for investors with astute palates. Cool conditions persisted throughout the growing season, bestowing upon the fruit a steady maturation that later manifested in wines of poised complexity.
The Elixir’s Essence: Unveiling Complexity and Finesse
Upon approach, one immediately recognises the meticulous artistry behind the 2001 Clos Fourtet with its harmonious mélange of ripe blackcurrants and cherries, lined delicately with hints of truffle and tobacco. On the palate, this Saint-Émilion marvel unfurls with rounded tannins that tell of a vintage graced by a winemaker's restraint and an artist’s touch. The terroir speaks through whispers of minerality, an echo of limestone depths, against which the ghost of oak weaves in and out like autumn mist.
For investors seeking to enrich their portfolios with Bordeaux selections, understanding vintages is crucial. The 2001 Clos Fourtet by Chateau Clos Fourtet represents an archetypal opportunity—showcasing both rarity and the promise of longevity. As time unspools its tapestry, those who treasure such liquid vestiges will find in this vintage plentiful rewards.
In Summation: An Enological Enigma Unravelled
The pedigree of Saint-Émilion is unmistakable in each glass served from this 2001 vintage—which reveals itself as a paradoxical blend of immediacy and endurance. Anchored firmly within an esteemed lineage yet standing distinct, 2001 Clos Fourtet cements its place as one of the quiet standouts within the investment echelon. For those captivated by the narratives bottled within such vintages, this offering from Chateau Clos Fourtet is a chapter worth savouring.
Market price (GBP)
£1,340.00
12x75cl
Highest score
91
POP score
121.82
Scores and tasting notes
An up and coming estate in the St.-Emilion firmament thanks to a new owner, the 2001 Clos Fourtet appears to be even better than the 2000. Aromas of blackberries, camphor, and sweet toasty oak emerge from this medium to full-bodied, heady, seductive, rich, luscious St.-Emilion. Loaded with fruit and extract, there is not a hard edge to be found in this beautifully textured, plump, sexy offering. Enjoy it over the next 12-14 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 June 2004
Tasted blind at Bordeaux Index’s 10-Year On horizontal. This has a slight more mature colour than the Troplong Mondot ’01. It has a pure, Merlot-dominated bouquet with scents of wild strawberry, raspberry, mocha and a touch of leather, all with fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with a dark, broody, tarry entry. Nicely balanced with slightly gritty tannins, more classic in style compared to Troplong with a touch of cedar and dried tobacco on the finish. A point. Tasted March 2011.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2011