Appellation: Graves, Bordeaux, France
Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
The property is in a zone served by 3 natural drains which start on the edge of the south plateau and flow out towards the north by cutting the slope. On top of this favorable topology, our soil reflects the Garonne history and offers different mixes of clay, sand and graves. These zones may cover only some square meters or extend over several ares. The graves, carried by the Garonne at the Villefranchien, can be found everywhere in our vineyard.
The oldest white vines were planted in 1991. Sémillons and sauvignons blancs are grown on a very favorable soil which combines limestone, sand and clay.
4 stars Vivino
Tastings: Deep garnet-purple in color, the mainly Cabernet Sauvignon-based 2018 des Fougères (Clos Montesquieu) bursts from the glass with bright, shiny scents of crushed blackberries, fresh black and red currants and Morello cherries, followed by hints of violets, dark chocolate and dried mint. The medium-bodied palate is elegantly styled and fantastically refreshing with soft, ripe, grainy tannins and plenty of crunchy black and red fruits, finishing with a perfumed lift. A real sleeper and a great surprise!
Lisa Perrotti-Browni | WA91 (RobertParker.com)
The 2018 Des Fougères Clos Montesquieu is terrific. Black cherry, espresso, licorice, dried flowers, mocha, blood orange, gravel and baking spices open gradually in the glass. More than anything else, I admire the wine's persistence and overall balance. Clos Montesquieu is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot.
Antonio Galloni | 91 AG
Clove and chili to the dark-berry and pine-needle undertones. It’s medium-bodied with a solid core of ripe, fine tannins and dark fruit. Drinkable now, but better in 2022.
James Suckling | 91 JS
A blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon brought up in 20% new oak, the 2018 Château Des Fougères Clos Montesquieu has a pretty, incredibly floral perfume of blue fruits, mulberries, leafy herbs, cedar, and rose petals. These all carry over to the palate, where the wine is medium-bodied, has a lively thread of acidity, light tannins, and solid length. It's one of those wines that grows on you with time in the glass and shines more for its finesse and elegance than power. It's going to benefit from 2-4 years in the cellar and should keep for a decade. (Drink between 2023-2033)