Lot presentation

Clos Fourtet 1er Grand Cru Classé B 1996

The wine

The vines consist of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc, and produce a powerful, distinguished wine. Clos Fourtet's wines develop delightful aromas of red fruit; on the palate, they are well-structured and full-bodied, with an excellent capacity to age.

About the Producer Clos Fourtet

Previously a fortified position that defended the village of Saint Emilion, Château Clos Fourtet is now a historic monument, still surrounded by walls. It has one of Saint Emilion's most remarkable cellars, hidden away in a series of underground chambers. For many years the property produced wines that did not express the full potential of the terroir. However, in 1998, thanks to the Lurton family, Clos de Fourtet's wines regained their true character. The property was bought by Philippe Cuvelier in 2001, the former boss of the Guilbert stationery and bookseller group. The property is currently converting to biodynamic viticulture, with a rigorous selection of the finest grapes under the guidance of Stéphane Derenoncourt. In 2013, the vineyard expanded with the acquisition of neighbouring parcels Les Grandes Murailles and Côte de Baleau. Another milestone followed in 2014 with the unveiling of a new vat room, enabling greater precision in vinification. From September to November 2010, the estate also provided the setting for Gilles Legrand’s feature film Tu seras mon fils (You Will Be My Son), starring Niels Arestrup and Laurent Deutsch.