Clos Fourtet winery
Clos Fourtet, located in the heart of Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, is a prestigious Premier Grand Cru Classé estate with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The property, once known as Camp Fourtet, served as a defensive fortification for the town of Saint-Émilion. The estate’s name evolved over centuries, reflecting its transformation from a medieval fortress to a celebrated vineyard. Today, Clos Fourtet spans 20 hectares of exceptional limestone plateau, which provides an ideal terroir for crafting wines of remarkable purity, elegance, and depth.
The vineyard is planted predominantly with Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, reflecting the classic Saint-Émilion blend. The soils, composed of limestone and clay, contribute to the unique character and minerality of the wines. The estate is committed to sustainable viticulture, employing environmentally friendly practices to nurture the vines and preserve the natural ecosystem. Each plot is meticulously managed, with careful attention to soil health, biodiversity, and minimal intervention, ensuring the vines express the true essence of the terroir.
Clos Fourtet’s winemaking philosophy centers on precision, respect for tradition, and innovation. Harvesting is done by hand, with rigorous selection in the vineyard and at the sorting table to ensure only the finest grapes are used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, followed by gentle extraction to preserve the fruit’s integrity. The wines are then aged in French oak barrels, with a careful balance between new and used wood to enhance complexity without overpowering the natural flavors.
The château’s underground cellars, carved into the limestone bedrock, provide ideal conditions for aging the wines. These historic cellars, stretching beneath the estate, maintain constant temperature and humidity, allowing the wines to mature gracefully over time. The result is a portfolio of wines that are distinguished by their aromatic intensity, refined tannins, and remarkable aging potential.
Clos Fourtet’s flagship Grand Vin showcases the estate’s signature style: deep, expressive aromas of black fruits, floral notes, and subtle minerality, with a palate that is both powerful and harmonious. The wine’s structure and freshness are hallmarks of the limestone plateau, offering a balance of richness and finesse. In addition to the Grand Vin, the estate produces a second wine, Closerie de Fourtet, which reflects the same attention to detail and quality, offering an accessible expression of the estate’s unique terroir.
The Cuvelier family, owners of Clos Fourtet since 2001, are dedicated to preserving the estate’s legacy while embracing modern advancements in viticulture and oenology. Their commitment is evident in the continuous pursuit of excellence, from vineyard management to winemaking and hospitality. The estate welcomes visitors for guided tours and tastings, offering an immersive experience into the world of Clos Fourtet and the rich heritage of Saint-Émilion.
Clos Fourtet stands as a testament to centuries of tradition, passion, and innovation, producing wines that capture the spirit and elegance of one of Bordeaux’s most celebrated appellations.