Fleur Cardinale – 2014
€37.50
2014 is a really good vintage that has struggled to gain attention in the shadow of 2015 and 2016. However if you are looking for wines that are drinking now and investment is not the objective this is the way to go.
Official Tasting Notes:
Dark purplish crimson with black core. Very ripe and perfumed dark fruit – there’s cherry and vanilla and even a slight floral note. Flattering first impression. Then has lovely deep but supple tannins on the palate, very primary and full of energy yet finishes with dry elegance. Drink 2018-2026
A powerful, rich and decadent bouquet bestowed with licorice and red jam. The palate is medium-bodied with muscular tannin, good depth, fine acidity with a structured and quite spicy finish that replicates the showing from barrel.
Enjoy this over the next 8-10 years.
John’s View:
Not sure how much of a recommendation this is but I chose this for our Christmas dinner this year. Needs time to open up so decant well in advance but once open is a lovely soft wine. Best words I can think of to describe it are opulent and rich – if you are a fan of Beaujolais-style light reds this is not for you! If you want depth, body and layers of flavor it is perfect. Don’t tell anyone but this is way underpriced – similar quality wines from St Emilion will generally sell for €75-80. Perfect with game, turkey or chicken.
Available on back-order
Unlike most of the estates we focus on Château Fleur Cardinale is a relatively large one at 23 hectares making around 100,000 bottles per year and vinified in stainless steel vats. In spite (or possibly because) of this the wine coming out of the chai is full of character and style. The terroir is ideal here and now that the average age of the vines is at or around the perfect 40 mark it is no surprise. 75% merlot is the driver here but 20%-ish cab sauvignon and a balance of Cab Franc give it interest.
| Vintage | 2014 |
|---|---|
| Grape | |
| Colour | Red |
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