2016 Clos Fourtet
By Chateau Clos Fourtet
2016 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
The 2016 Clos Fourtet, a true embodiment of the innovation and tradition rooted within the grounds of Chateau Clos Fourtet in Saint-Émilion, is a vintage that stands as a testament to the exceptional terroir of this historic estate. My long-standing relationship with the chateau’s offerings enables me to assert with confidence that their 2016 edition is a fine exhibit of vinicultural craftsmanship, worthy of investors' attention.
Noteworthy Vintage with Robust Investment Potential
In the year 2016, Chateau Clos Fourtet benefited immensely from Bordeaux's near-perfect climatic conditions, allowing for an ideal balance between ripeness and structure in the grapes. Critical weather periods passed favourably; a mild winter and a notably wet spring was followed by a providential dry summer and early autumn harvest, culminating in grapes with superb concentration. The Merlot-led blend of this Saint-Émilion Grand Cru expresses eloquently both its lineage and the singularity of the vintage.
A Distinctive Expression from an Illustrious Terroir
Tasting the 2016 Clos Fourtet unveils layers of complexity unseen in previous years. One encounters a core of dark plums and blackberry fruits, laced elegantly with hints of graphite and fresh violets—a subtle nod to the iron-rich clay that distinguishes the underfoot. And while ageability is a hallmark here, what caught my palate was the wine’s immediate sense of approachability; refined tannins and an impeccable texture suggest this vintage will mature gracefully over time while remaining remarkably accessible within its youth.
For exquisite wine investment opportunities, I hold the 2016 vintage from Chateau Clos Fourtet in high regard. It offers not just immediate drinking pleasure but also holds immense promise for those looking to expand their portfolio with wines possessing significant ageing potential.
A Resplendent Addition for Discerning Collectors
As it stands, the 2016 Clos Fourtet represents one of those stellar vintages that not only showcases the depth of Bordeaux’s wine-making prowess but also underscores the wise foresight in securing allocations for future appreciation. With every passing year, this wine will unfurl new facets of its character, rewarding patience magnificently. For those looking to captivate their palate while making sage investments, this vintage ought not to be overlooked.
Market price (USD)
$1,240.00
12x75cl
Highest score
98
POP score
56.67
Scores and tasting notes
Gorgeous from the get-go, with plum sauce, cassis and violet notes streaming through, showing ample richness yet relying more on cut, while anise, black tea and chalky mineral flavors persist on the finish. A beauty in the making.—J.M.
Wine Spectator - The Wine Spectator (James Molesworth)
This is a solid and structured 2016 with fabulous density and freshness. Full-bodied yet vibrant and exciting. Wow. We will see.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 4th 2017
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Clos Fourtet is a little closed to begin, slowly unfurling to reveal notions of warm black cherries, crème de cassis, blackberry compote and dark chocolate with hints of garrigue, bay leaves and cigar box. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a firm yet beautifully ripe frame of fine-grained tannins with a lively line lifting the concentrated, multilayered fruit to a long finish.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 29 March 2019
Very sweet nose. Something a little dead about this sample. Not enough freshness. Smooth tannins but just a bit of lack of life on the mid palate. Obviously ambitious. I'd love to taste another sample. A saliva-sucker.
Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com