The 1996 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux

An opulent year for the Right Bank vineyards, the 1996 vintage gave birth to wines of formidable character and longevity. It is a pleasure to revisit the 1996 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet, a wine deeply rooted in the limestone and clay terrains that underpin Saint-Emilion's most revered terroirs.

Navigating a Variable Season

The growing season of '96 was punctuated by variable weather, which ultimately culminated in well-timed dry and sunny conditions just before harvest. This climatic twist allowed for an optimal ripening of the Merlot-dominated blend that defines Clos Fourtet's sensibilities. Picking commenced with precision timing, ensuring that each berry was cradled into wine-making at its peak potency.

The Ensemble of '96: A Symphony of Composure and Complexity

On the approach, this 1996 Clos Fourtet presents itself with garnet hues and an ample bouquet of truffle, tobacco and dark cherry. Elegantly oxidative notes interlace with tertiary complexities as they dance across a palate layered with rich blackcurrant, cedarwood, and a hint of anise. This wine's refined tannins have softened gracefully over the years, while a fresh seam of acidity maintains the structure needed for further mellowing.

With an impressive ability to unite power with poise, this vintage has entered a beautifully resolved stage in its evolution. For fine wine investors looking to add Saint-Emilion allure to their portfolio, the 1996 Clos Fourtet should appear as an engaging proposition—ample in charm and poised for continued grace.

Connoisseur's Summary: A Time-Capsule of Elegance

In summation, this particular offering from Chateau Clos Fourtet is akin to unearthing a time-capsule of elegance—a narrative bottle that tells the story of the '96 season with clarity and depth. Each taste reaffirms its rightful place within the tapestry of Bordeaux's finest vintages—potentially rewarding for both the collector's cellar and the astute investor's portfolio. It epitomises what is most celebrated about Saint-Emilion's capacity for greatness; it is indeed one of those wines that continues to unfurl its chapters as it matures.