2017 Clos de Bouard
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Clos de Boüard has turned out beautifully. Pliant and expressive in the glass, with terrific resonance, the 2017 is so inviting. Sweet red cherry and plum fruit are pushed forward, while floral overtones develop with a bit of air. I would give the tannins a bit of time to soften. This is a very pretty wine from the de Boüard family's property in Montagne Saint-Émilion. The blend 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Clos de Bouärd opens with cedar and spice box notes giving way to a core of kirsch, blackberry compote and tar. Medium-bodied, the palate has a firm, sturdy frame with a good amount of black fruit preserves and a bit of chew to the finish.
The 2017 Clos de Boüard offers attractive blackberry, briary and light tobacco scents on the nose that feels nicely focused. The palate is medium-bodied with a superb line of acidity. This feels very cohesive, velvety smooth in texture with subtle tarry, graphite notes on the finish. This constitutes and excellent Montagne Saint-Émilion from the Boüard family.
The grand vin, the 2017 Chateau Clos de Bouard is all Merlot brought up in a mix of new and French oak. Its ruby hue is followed by a medium-bodied, delicious, juicy effort that has beautiful elegance, medium-bodied richness and depth, fine tannins, and great aromatics. It's not a blockbuster, but it’s straight-up classy. Drink it over the coming 10-15 years.