Wine Advisor
La Fleur Petrus 1998
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Description
Château La Fleur-Pétrus is one of the most renowned vineyards of Pomerol. This historic estate, situated exclusively on the plateau, was named in the 18th century for its position across the localities ‘Petrus’ and ‘La Fleur’. Established in Libourne since 1937, Jean-Pierre Moueix perceived early on the excellent quality of the Pomerol appellation. Château La Fleur-Pétrus was his very first acquisition in 1950. Quickly after, he purchased Château Trotanoy in 1953.
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.
As I have said in recent vintage reports, La Fleur-Petrus is finally living up to its name. Obviously the acquisition of the finest parcel of old vines from Le Gay has given this wine added richness and power. The splendid 1998 is not only a true vin de garde, but a sumptuous, concentrated, intense Pomerol that marries elegance with exceptional concentration and muscle. The color is a dense black/ruby, and the wine is fruit-driven. It is full-bodied, with luscious purity, layers of sweet black cherry and cassis-scented fruit nicely touched by subtle, toasty oak, admirable length, sweet tannin, low acidity, and high concentration. The overall impression is one of structured opulence. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020.
Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.
Bordeaux enthusiasts would have to go back to 1947 to find a La Fleur-Petrus this spectacular. The 1998 exhibits a dense purple color, an extremely high level of tannin, powerful, full-bodied flavors (black cherries, mocha, and currants galore), and a style reminiscent of the mighty Petrus. In addition to the wine's hallmark purity and elegance, Christian Moueix has built in more muscle, strength, and concentration. Prospective purchasers will, however, need patience, as this wine requires bottle aging. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2025. Bravo!
Reviewed by: Robert M. Parker, Jr.
The finest La Fleur-Petrus I have tasted, this dense ruby/purple-colored wine exhibits aromas and flavors of Chinese black tea, raspberries, kirsch liqueur, and flowers. Elegant, yet crammed with concentrated fruit, it is symmetrical, harmonious and long, with tremendous persistence on the palate. While not a blockbuster/heavyweight, it is a wine of finesse and richness that admirably balances power with elegance. A great success! Anticipated maturity: 2003-2020.
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
Served from an ex-chateau magnum served for the opening of the refurbished winery, I am shocked that despite drinking several bottles, I have never published a tasting note! Especially because it is a sensual, almost voluptuous Pomerol, opening beautifully on the nose with plush black and red berries, dark plum, yellow flowers, a touch of black truffle of luxuriously packaged. The palate is full-bodied for La Fleur-Petrus with sensual tannins that belie the structure underneath. This is very harmonious at 15 year of age, very cohesive with a payload of Dorset plum, kirsch, fresh strawberries, truffle and blood orange – almost exotic in style but very classy. This is one of my favourite Pomerols for a fecund vintage. Superb. Drink now-2025. Tasted June 2013.
Reviewed by: Lisa Perrotti-Brown
Tasted from magnum, the deep garnet-brick colored 1998 la Fleur-Petrus has alluring hoisin, charcuterie, cigar box, sandalwood and potpourri notes with a core of dried mulberries, kirsch, plum preserves and menthol plus hints of tobacco, figs and leather. Soft and satiny textured in the medium to full-bodied mouth, it has bags of earth and minted cassis flavors accenting the dried berries and earthy layers, finishing with a spicy lift.
Reviewed by: Stephen Tanzer
Red-ruby. Deep aromas of kirsch, graphite and smoky oak. Fat, thick, concentrated and deep; quite fleshy but with backbone. Already offers enticing inner-mouth perfume. Long, satisfying finish features thoroughly ripe tannins and very persistent, sweet, chocolatey fruit. This is turning out very well indeed.
Reviewed by: Stephen Tanzer
Full ruby. Very ripe aromas of kirsch and black raspberry. Opulent and thick, but bright and delineated. Lovely creamy old-vines texture. Quite dense for a young wine from this estate. Finishes with a chocolatey ripeness and very suave tannins.
About the Producer
Château La Fleur-Pétrus is one of the most renowned vineyards of Pomerol. This historic estate, situated exclusively on the plateau, was named in the 18th century for its position across the localities ‘Petrus’ and ‘La Fleur’. Established in Libourne since 1937, Jean-Pierre Moueix perceived early on the excellent quality of the Pomerol appellation. Château La Fleur-Pétrus was his very first acquisition in 1950. Quickly after, he purchased Château Trotanoy in 1953. The personality of Château La Fleur-Pétrus lies in the careful association of the famous gravel and clay terroirs of the plateau of Pomerol. The vineyard, located at 33 to 38 meters above sea level, draws its identity from the nuances of soil and elevation of each parcel. Those parcels which are dominated by gravel tend to yield wines of great elegance, while those dominated by clay are distinctly velvety, dense, and structured. Château La Fleur-Pétrus is composed predominantly of Merlot, which lends silkiness and generosity to the wine. Cabernet Franc, planted on gravel and fine clay, contributes rigor and complexity, while a small percentage of Petit Verdot, planted on fine gravel, offers a hint of spice to the finish. The wine combines a unique elegance with the generosity and structure typical of the great vineyards of Pomerol. An attentive tasting reveals remarkable refinement, complexity, and a touch of violet.
1982(2)1983(1)1995(1)1996(1)
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