The Wine Advocate | RP 91
Published: Jul 29, 2016

The 2011 Château La Fleur-Petrus is surprisingly forward and as someone that bangs Bordeaux, I would not begrudge anyone for opening this now. It has plenty of fruit on the nose: raspberry coulis, truffle and just a touch of menthol that evolves after an hour the bottle has been opened. This is precocious in the context of the vintage. The palate is soft and fleshy on the entry, quite saline with sappy black fruit, fruit-forward for the first hour, but then seeming to run out of ideas after an hour and thinning out (whereas the 2012 fans out). As a consequence, it just feels a little grainy and hard, in contrast to the more comely bouquet. Tasted February 2016.
Drink Date 2017 - 2030

Jamessuckling.com | JS 92
Published: Feb 18, 2014

A little lean for La Fleur-Pétrus but very attractive plum and cocoa character. Full to medium body with integrated tannins and a fine, fresh, chewy finish. Better in 2017.

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-P?trus 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.