2017 Jean Faure
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Jean Faure is 95% Cabernet Franc and 5% Malbec – the Merlot completely eradicated by the frost. It actually has an interesting, loamy bouquet with a touch of green bell pepper in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannin, touches of bell pepper and spice once again, but you know, it is a thoroughly reasonable take on a quasi-Cabernet Franc monovarietal and in that respect, it works well.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Jean Faure is highly unusual in this vintage. Frost damaged all the Merlot and led to a blend of 95% Cabernet Franc and 5% Malbec. Today, the 2017 is very tannic and shut down. Time in the glass brings out an attractive element of floral and red-toned brightness. I am not sure where the 2017 will go, but it is certainly very interesting. Production is down to just 10,000 bottles from around 70,000 that is typical.
The deep purple-colored 2017 Château Jean Faure (the color is no doubt due to the Malbec) offers a beautiful perfume of blueberries, leafy herbs, damp earth, and crushed rocks. Medium-bodied, fresh and elegant, it has nicely integrated acidity, present tannin, and nicely integrated acidity. It shines more for its complexity and elegance than power and richness, and has outstanding potential.