Bordeaux, Bottle Notes

2001 Chateau Clos St. Martin – Bottle Notes

Clos St. Martin dates back to at least the early 1800’s. The vineyard has been owned by the Rieffers family since 1850. Clos St. Martin takes its name from the St. Martin, who is the Patron Saint for wine growers, soldiers and beggars. In March, 2013 the Cuvelier family, the owners of Chateau Clos Fourtet, headed by Matthieu Cuvelier, purchased the property. Clos St. Martin is situated next to the likes of Chateau Canon, Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot and Chateau Beausejour Duffau. Clos St. Martin with its 1.33-hectare vineyard is the smallest classified Bordeaux wine in the Saint Emilion appellation.

The wine was briefly decanted and served with grilled pork and pasta.

Crimson in color. 13% ABV. Stunning nose of red fruits, leather, cigar box and graphite. Warm and supple with perfect acidity. Nice balance between fruit and tannins. Cassis, currants, truffle, plums and earth on the palate. The finish is exceptionally long and silky. Outstanding Bordeaux from an overlooked vintage that thoroughly exceeded my expectations. I wish I had more bottles left. Terrific right now but the structure is here to cellar for another 2-4 years.

My rating: 95 points.

Current vintages of Clos St. Martin including the ’15 and ’16 are worth considering for the cellar at around $100 per bottle.

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