Chateau LaFleur

As is common with Pomerol properties, the history behind this estate is sketchy and tracing its origins is especially difficult. Popping into the history records during the mid to late 19th century, it was in the possession of the Constant family, members of which also owned Chateau Clinet. Before the end of the century, the Constants were joined by a gentleman named Pineau, who was probably a son-in-law.

In any case, the property remained with Pineau’s family for several decades, during which the production was stepped up. A proprietor called Montouroy held onto the estate for a short time, but it was soon handed over to the Garet family. Their stay was also short-lived, spanning little more than a decade. Thankfully, for the sake of consistency, the Moueix family acquired it in 1953 and it is they who have kept possession to the present day. The wines today are of superlative quality, and this is down to the efforts invested in the vineyards by the Moueix family; their predecessors made no real headway in this regard.

The vineyard covers 14.4 hectares of gravelly soil, rather than the characteristic Pomerol clay, and the vines are less surprisingly predominantly Merlot (80% - the remaining 20% being Cabernet Franc.) The frost in 1956 wiped out many mature vines at that time, resulting in a dip in quality during the 1960s and 70s when the vines were immature. Today this is obviously not the case. In addition, the property acquired a small chateau in 1994, which has since been renovated. This means La Fleur finally has a chateau in keeping with its prestigious status.

Harvesting is carried out manually. Fermentation is carried out in cement vats in a chateau outhouse. Once fermented, it is transferred to oak barrels for 18-20 months. There is no second wine offered at this time.