2020 Chateau La Fleur Saint Emilion Grand Cru

In 1955, Marcel Dassault's impulse led to the birth of Château Dassault, and with relentless dedication, he elevated it to the coveted status of Grand Cru Classé in 1969. Today, Dassault Wine Estates encompasses nearly fifty hectares and 3 different estates, upholding the commitment to produce exquisite wines that stand the test of time.

In 1995, Laurence Brun took the helm at Chateau Dassault, building upon the legacy of her father. With the support of Laurent Dassault and Olivier Costa de Beauregard, she initiated a transformative quality development project. Their commitment to excellence was complemented by the expertise of Richard Vanrenterghem (vineyard consultant) and Jean Philippe Fort (winemaker). 

Situated in the heart of the Libourne region, the village of Saint-Émilion is where this exceptional wine originates. Surrounded by picturesque hills, Saint-Émilion's vineyards have earned a place on the World Heritage List, recognized for their unique cultural landscape and historic significance.

The terroir of Chateau La Fleur Saint-Émilion Grand Cru is characterized by diverse soils, including limestone, clay-limestone, gravel, and sand. This geological diversity, combined with a microclimate, imparts a distinct character to the wines.

Every aspect of vineyard work is meticulously planned, from vine care throughout the year to the selection of the finest grapes. Harvesting at Château Dassault is a delicate process. The grapes are tasted and selected by hand in the vineyard, followed by careful transport to the cellar in small crates. Innovation meets tradition with the use of an optical sorting table, ensuring only the finest berries are chosen for the next phase.

2020 was an exceptional vintage that was awarded 98 points by Vinous Media, who said, “An exceptional vintage for Bordeaux, certainly the best in the 2018-2020 trilogy. Quality is exceptionally high among the great wines of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol.”

Aging: 14 to 18 months in French oak barrels.

77% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. 
See Critical Reviews for detailed tasting notes.

A rich and layered red that shows plenty of fruit and velvety tannins, with a citrusy and black olive undertone to the ripe and flavorful fruit. Full and intense. Give it two or three years to soften and refine. Drink after 2025 and onwards. ~94 James Suckling

Smoky tar and cloves on the nose here, a little tight and chewy but clearly well made. The tannic frame is fully in play but softened by rich berry fruits and plenty of bitter chocolate shavings. A Dassault wine, with the house signature. Drinking Window 2025 - 2040  ~92 Decanter

The 2020 La Fleur has a deep garnet-purple color and beautifully perfumed notes of rose oil, chocolate-covered cherries and ground cloves, over a core of preserved plums and kirsch, plus a waft of fragrant earth. The medium to full-bodied palate is soft and juicy, delivering bags of freshness and a lifted finish. ~91 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate