Classified elegance, limestone minerality, and velvety allure

Historic estate of 19 hectares located on the heights of Saint-Émilion, Clos Fourtet benefits from an exceptional limestone terroir and a finely tempered climate. Owned by Philippe Cuvelier since 2001 with the prestigious advice of Stéphane Derenoncourt, the estate combines strict soil, controlled yield, and aging in generous barrels (≈60‑80% new), for fascinating and durable wines.

Terroir & grape varieties

Classic clay-limestone plateau soils, perfectly drained, planted at high density. Planting dominated by Merlot (~85%), then Cabernet Sauvignon (≈10%) and Cabernet Franc (≈5%), on vines averaging 25 years old.

Viticulture & winemaking

Entirely hand-harvested, fermentations in thermo-regulated vats for 25–30 days with gentle pump-overs. Long maceration and malolactic fermentation in barrels. Aging extends over 18 months, with a mix of new and used barrels to balance structure and elegance.

Style & aging potential

Clos Fourtet captivates with its deep color, bouquet of dark fruits (plum, blackcurrant), notes of graphite, licorice, flowers, and subtle spices. The texture is silky, and the whole finishes on a refreshing saline minerality. The wine offers an appealing expression today but gains depth after 5–7 years, with a very good aging potential of 20 to 40 years, depending on the vintages.

Iconic cuvées

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  Clos Fourtet: the grand wine, dense, structured, and velvety.

  
  
  
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  Closerie de Fourtet: second wine, accessible, fresh, fruity, and elegant.