1990 Clos Fourtet
By Chateau Clos Fourtet
1990 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
When considering the illustrious annals of Bordeaux's right bank, the vintage adorning the title '1990' presages an experience of sumptuous pedigree. The 1990 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet emerges as an elixir steeped in historical reverence, showcasing the climatic harmony that blessed Saint-Émilion's terroir this particular year. A beacon for collectors and investors alike, this vintage reveals the transcendental potential of meritorious years and meticulous vinification.
An Unassailable Vintage
The bucolic splendour of 1990 in Bordeaux offered a season where warmth and rain danced in euphonious balance, a rarity in such capricious climes. Vines thrived under these benevolent skies, etching into the nascent grapes a destinied grandeur. Notably, Chateau Clos Fourtet's cherished limestone plateau played its part in regulating moisture to craft concentration and finesse within its fruit. The merit of this particular vintage bespeaks a confluence of natural grace and human skill.
Ethereal Expression of Earth and Vine
In the glass, the 1990 Clos Fourtet articulates opulence with each swirl. Its aromatic profile—a tapestry of black cherries, truffles, and a touch of cigar box—precipitates a palatial affair upon the senses. On the palate, one is greeted by an array of harmoniously interlinked flavours: ripe plum entwined with subtle hints of liquorice and earthy undertones—a symphony accentuated by soft tannins which have rounded beautifully over the decades. Tethered to an enduring finish, the 1990 offering from Chateau Clos Fourtet is woven with a structural complexity that bears testament to its storied origin.
Within a portfolio befitting astute connoisseurs or sagacious investors seeking veneration for their cellar, the 1990 Clos Fourtet stands distinguished. Its vibrant yet nuanced maturity has gracefully evolved to crescendo rather than diminish—a feat emblematic of adroit craftsmanship and conducive weather.
To immerse oneself in its depths is not merely to savor a wine but to partake in a storied vintage's legacy. This Saint-Émilion treasure presents an exemplary opportunity for those discerning enough to recognize its value amidst the world's exemplary assemblage of vinous marvels.
Market price (USD)
$1,850.00
12x75cl
Highest score
90
POP score
151
Scores and tasting notes
Fully mature, and probably the best Clos Fourtet made during a rather undistinguished period, this dark plum/garnet-colored wine has an enticing nose of melted licorice, Provencal herbs, smoked meats, and sweet cherry and black currant fruit. Medium to full-bodied, with a luscious, succulent texture, excellent concentration, and sweet tannins, this hedonistic yet intellectually satisfying wine is a treat to drink. Anticipated maturity: Now-2010. Last tasted, 1/03.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 31 December 2002
Although this actually looks more youthful than the '95 Clos Fourtet, the nose is lacking vigour, rather diffuse and undoubtedly lacking the fruit concentration one would expect for the vintage. Touches of dark chocolate in there somewhere
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Nov 2008