2013 La Fleur de Bouard

The black/purple-colored 2013 La Fleur de Bouard exhibits lots of licorice, blueberry and blackberry fruit intertwined with notions of charcoal and incense. It is an amazing accomplishment in a vintage that was fraught with difficulties. Proprietor Hubert de Bouard has crafted an opulent, rich, full 2013 that should drink nicely for a decade.

85% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Plum, redcurrant, milk chocolate – really charming and interesting, Smooth palate. Some coffee character on the finish. Very characterful, and more immediately appealing than their Le Plus cuvée. (RH)

Dark red cherry, plum, spice, tobacco and earthy notes emerge from the 2013 La Fleur de Boüard. The 2013 shows good depth and density for the year. Tannins that aren't completely ripe detract from the wine's balance, but only slightly. Overall, this is a solid effort with potential.