The Wine Advocate | RP 95
Published: May 2, 2011

A major sleeper of the vintage, the 2008 La Fleur Petrus (90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc) is a remarkably sexy, opulent wine that transcends the vintage character. Its dense plum/ruby/purple color is accompanied by notes of sweet black cherries, licorice, truffles and a hint of graphite. Full-bodied with silky tannin as well as undeniable appeal, richness, purity and a 40 second finish, this is a sure-fire big buy in 2008. Drink it over the next 20 years. 
Drink Date: 2010 - 2031

Jamessuckling.com | JS 92
Published: Dec 19, 2010

A charming and delicate wine with notes of cherries and berries. Full bodied with super fine tannins and a long, fruity finish. Very pretty and approachable. Almost pure Merlot. Hard not to drink now, but start looking at it in three to four years. 

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.