Chateau Clos Fourtet   Clos Fourtet

2004 Clos Fourtet

By Chateau Clos Fourtet

2004 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux

In the realm of fine Bordeaux, the 2004 Clos Fourtet from Chateau Clos Fourtet undoubtedly consummates a remarkable vintage within the idyllic confines of Saint-Émilion. My devotion to the intricacies of Bordeaux vintages grants me a perspective through which the manifold qualities of this particular year shine most resplendently.

 

Eloquent Evolution: A Vintage's Journey

The 2004 vintage emerged in a dance with nature's own rhythms, avoiding the extremes of its successor and preceding years, revealing an elegance that speaks softly of its maturity now. Not unlike many prudent wine investments that flourish with time, the 2004 Clos Fourtet has evolved with an added depth of character, one which shirks away from youthful bravado for an alluring complexity.

 

Tasting Notes: An Investor's Delight

On the palate, connoisseurs will discern how time has graced the 2004 Clos Fourtet with layers of ripe blackberry and plum notes, interlaced with whispers of truffle and new leather—hallmarks of a wine investment-worthy Saint-Émilion. As it decants, one uncovers a labyrinthine array of secondary aromas and flavours; cigar box and dried herbs lend an urbane distinction to this refined offering.

The moderate climatic conditions that defined this season's harvest in Bordeaux endowed the fruit with balanced acidity and subtle tannins. These elements contribute to a poised structure—a solid foundation for protracted cellaring and potential valuation gains in the years to come.

The 2004 Clos Fourtet is indeed a paragon from Chateau Clos Fourtet, illuminating the vintner’s prowess in shaping the vestiges of climatic temperament into vinous poetry. For those who covet nuance over bombast, this offers an introspective journey befitting astute palates and discerning investors alike.

Current market price

$1,620.00

12x75cl

Highest score

90

POP score

97

Scores and tasting notes

90

A soft, fleshy cassis note intermixed with plum, fig, and truffle characteristics are present in this round, easy-going, medium-bodied St.-Emilion. While it does not possess the power, richness, or remarkable concentration of its siblings, the 2003 and 2005, it is a noteworthy success for this vintage. Consume it now and over the next 10-12 years.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 28 June 2007

90

This has a very similar note to the bottle in July at the vertical with a crisp blackberry, raspberry and that tang of the sea just in the background. It is an attractive bouquet. The palate is medium-bodied, very harmonious with nice poise and smooth texture. Modern in style, very well crafted without the metallic element that the previous bottle showed. Very elegant, just a lovely Saint Emilion with the depth so suggest it will age gracefully over 10-15 years. Drink 2010-2025. Tasted November 2008.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Mar 2009

Vintage performance