Red wine | Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France
Allow me to introduce you to a true jewel from Bordeaux, the 2014 Château La Fleur Saint-Émilion Grand Cru. This exceptional wine is crafted by Dassault Wine Estates, a name synonymous with quality and tradition. Nestled in the prestigious Saint-Émilion appellation, Château La Fleur benefits from a unique terroir that imparts its signature character.
This is a Merlot-dominant blend. The 2014 vintage presents a harmonious balance of ripe fruit, elegant structure, and refined tannins. On the nose, it offers a captivating bouquet of dark cherries, blackberries, and plums, intertwined with subtle notes of cedar, tobacco, and earth. The palate is rich and velvety, with layers of complexity that unfold with each sip. The wine's well-integrated tannins provide a firm backbone, while its refreshing acidity ensures a long, lingering finish.
Expert critics have recognized the excellence of this vintage, with an average rating of 93 points. This is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that goes into producing each bottle of Château La Fleur. The wine benefits from a 30 minute resting period to fully express its aromas and flavours.
Now, let's talk about food pairings. The 2014 Château La Fleur is incredibly versatile and complements a wide range of dishes. Its structure and flavour profile make it an ideal companion for grilled meats, such as ribeye steak or lamb chops. It also pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, like duck or pheasant, and hearty stews. For cheese lovers, it's a perfect match for aged cheddar, Gruyère, or Comté. The wine's earthy notes make it also suitable for mushroom-based dishes.
The Dassault family, owners of Château Dassault, bring a blend of passion for aviation and winemaking to their estates. Their wines are crafted with precision and attention to detail, reflecting the family's commitment to excellence. The winery is also at the forefront of sustainable practices, employing techniques that minimize their environmental impact.
Saint-Émilion, the region where Château La Fleur is located, is renowned for its Merlot-based wines. The area's unique combination of clay and limestone soils, along with its favourable climate, creates an ideal environment for growing Merlot grapes. Wines from Saint-Émilion are known for their elegance, complexity, and aging potential.
This wine is a true investment, a bottle that will continue to evolve and delight over the next decade. Add it to your cellar, and experience the magic of Saint-Émilion for yourself.