Chateau Lafleur-Gazin Pomerol 2014

Chateau Lafleur-Gazin, Pomerol, Bordeaux, France, 2014 

Grapes: 85% Merlot & 15% Cabernet Franc, 21 acres planted, handpicked, 16-18 months ageing in French oak barrels (30-40% new wood).

Situated on the northern edge of the plateau of Pomerol, nestled between Château Gazin and Château La Fleur-Pétrus, this wine has been produced by Jean-Pierre Moueix since 1976 for the Delfour-Borderie family, owners since 1930.

The Merlot vines (averaging 30 years of age), are planted on gravel and clay. The Cabernet Franc is planted on silt soils, which encourage a nuanced and full expression of this varietal’s character.

The vineyard management and vinification are carried out traditionally and with great care, producing a plump, supple, fleshy wine with ripe fruit and silky tannins.

Eminently approachable, even in its youth, Lafleur-Gazin is a delightful expression of the lighter style of Pomerol wines.

Critics' Tasting Notes:

"A dense, powerful wine, the 2014 Lafleur-Gazin is terrific. The aromatics alone are beguiling, with distinct Cabernet Franc overtones, even though there is only 5% of Franc in the blend. Mocha, sweet herbs, tobacco, anise and leather build in the glass as the 2014 shows off its creamy, enveloping personality. The 2014 is obviously an infant, but its textural finesse and complex bouquet are incredibly enticing. The tannins will need to soften, but I can't imagine that will be an issue here."

90+/100 points, VINOUS

"Exceptionally dark crimson. Headily opulent and the fruit almost hides just a very very slightly green note. Drive and energy and this is very well put together though is hardly ethereal. Exciting drama on the finish." Drink 2022-2035

16.5++/20 points, Jancis Robinson, JancisRobinson.com, April 2015

"A smooth wine that is ripe with rich berry and dark-plum fruits. With its soft tannins and juicy crisp acidity, the wine is warm, rounded and likely to develop quickly. Drink this already attractive smoky wine from 2020."

90/100 points, WINE ENTHUSIAST, January 2017

Drink with veal, pork, beef, lamb, duck, game and even Asian and hearty fish courses like tuna.