2023 CHÂTEAU FLEUR CARDINALE Grand Cru Saint Emilion, Lea & Sandeman

CHÂTEAU FLEUR CARDINALE

2024 Grand Cru Saint Emilion

Colour Red
Origin France, Bordeaux
Sub-district Saint Emilion & Satellites
Village Saint Emilion
Classification Grand Cru
ABV 13%

Maison Cardinale, as the overall Decoster group of estates is now called, has produced a wine with energy and lift. Doing this in the 2024 vintage without overpowering acidity is a tough ask, but you can find a good example of what is possible here - smooth rich blackberry and red cherry fruits, firm tannic grip, definitely on the slim side of fruit expression on these north-facing slopes but with a ton slate minerality and finesse. 36% new oak, 42hl/h yield, 26ha vineyard, 25% 600l new oak casks, and 2% amphora. They have introduced a variety of differently-sized containers for ageing, overseen by technical director Ludovine Chagnon. The blend given is likely to be final, but the decision will be taken after ageing. Drinking range: 2028 - 2035 Rating: 92 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2025)


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The 2024 Fleur Cardinale was cropped at 42 hl/ha after selection, with two lots undergoing some saignée. It has an attractive bouquet with clean blackberry and wild strawberry fruit laced with wilted flowers. The palate is medium-bodied with good substance considering the growing season, with mainly notes of black fruit with a subtle citric touch. Nicely composed on the finish, this is a well-crafted Saint-Émilion. Drinking range: 2028 - 2045 Rating: 90-92 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (May 2025)

I like the pepper, red berries and dark cherries here. Lighter this year with a medium-bodied palate and a tangy lift of spices. Fresh, crunchy tannins in the middle are appealing. A firm and vibrating finish of very good length. Evenly packed and well-made. Likely to be a very solid choice from the vintage if you’re looking for balance and brightness. Rating: 93-94 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2025)

The 2024 Fleur Cardinale is a very pretty wine. Crushed flowers, mint, blood orange and vibrant red-toned fruit are nicely delineated in this mid-weight, gracious Saint-Émilion. The style here has shifted significantly in recent years in favor of freshness and energy, although the personality of the vintage is very much in evidence as well. This is so elegant and polished. Tasted two times. Drinking range: 2029 - 2039 Rating: 90-93 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (Apr 2025)

Château Fleur Cardinale

A Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux located on one of the highest points of the Saint-Émilion appellation, owned by Florence and Dominique Decoster - who used to be in the porcelain trade. The vineyards of Château Fleur Cardinale spread over 18 hectares, with an average vine age of 35 years, and are planted at a density of 6000 vines/hectare. Florence and Dominique bought the property in 2001, and the property quickly gained the ranking of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé in 2006.

This wine isn't currently part of a mixed case, but you can always browse our full selection of mixed cases here.
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