The Wine Advocate | RP 93
Published: Apr 23, 1998

Dazzling since birth, the 1995 has not lost a thing since bottling. A saturated dark purple color suggests a wine of considerable depth and concentration. The nose offers up gorgeous aromas of sweet kirsch intermixed with black raspberry, mineral, and smoky notes. Full-bodied, with superb richness and purity, loads of tannin, and a layered, multidimensional personality, this terrific La Fleur-Petrus is the finest wine I have tasted at this property in the twenty years I have been visiting Bordeaux. Readers may remember that I previously reported that a 10-acre old vine sector of Le Gay was sold to La Fleur-Petrus, increasing the latter's vineyard to 33 acres. I believe this 10-acre acquisition has beefed up La Fleur-Petrus, a fact particularly evident in this 1995. It is a splendid effort! Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025. 
Drink Date: 2005 - 2025

Winemaker

Appellation: Pomerol
Area under vine: 18.7 hectares (45.8 acres)
Soil types: Gravel and deep clay on iron-rich subsoil

Vineyard grape varietals: 91% Merlot - 6% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot
Average vine age: 35 years
Viticulture: Certified HVE 3, Soil tilling (4 ways), Vine growth management adapted to the climatic
Harvest: Manual harvest, Double sorting: manual and optical
Winemaking: In thermo-regulated concrete and stainless-steel vats, Gentle & controlled maceration & extraction
Aging: 16-18 months in French oak barrels (50% new)

History

Chateau La Fleur-Petrus 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. Chateau La Fleur-Petrus was his very first acquisition in 1950. Quickly after, he purchased Chateau Trotanoy in 1953.

The personality of Chateau La Fleur-Petrus 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.

Chateau La Fleur-Petrus 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.