Fourth Apostle
Château Lafleur 1994
A red bloom in Bordeaux's garden
A poetic murmur carried by the breeze, where light dissolves into shadow.
- Country
- France
- Region
- Bordeaux (Pomerol)
- Grapes
- Merlot 50%, Cabernet Franc 50%
- Vintage
- 1994
- Producer
- Château Lafleur
- Appearance scene
- Volume 15 #139~
総合 75 / 100
Letter from Yutaka Kanzaki
I find myself under the clear May sky. There, under the gentle shade of a great tree, I gaze upon a brilliantly shining garden, and suddenly, I open an old book I had brought with me.
"When I saw you beneath the apple tree, with your hair just beginning to grow, adorned with a flower comb, I thought of you as a gentle being. You extended your white hand and gave me an apple, a pale red autumn fruit, and that was the beginning of my first love. When my sighs, devoid of heart, touched your hair, I drank the cup of joyful love, poured by your affection. Beneath the apple orchard, the narrow path that naturally formed—whose first steps marked it, I wonder."
I slowly stand up and, humming the memorized poem, wander through the blooming garden. Enveloped by the scent of budding green leaves and the aroma of rain-soaked earth rising from the ground, I find myself, without realizing it, standing in the very heart of the garden. A harmony of vivid flowers—crimson, cherry blossom pink, red-purple, and pure white. I gently pick a single red-purple flower and, as I once did with a girl, sip its nectar. Its pure, faint, and reticent sweetness quietly connects to the memory of the girl's smile and sweet kiss... That wine resembles my first love.
Tasting notes
Château Lafleur is this charming family-run estate in Pomerol, Bordeaux. They have this special 50/50 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc that really stands out. The vineyard's small size makes each bottle feel unique, you know?
You'll find this wine in Volume 15 of the series. Though we don't exactly know the scene, choosing this wine implies the moment was significant. Imagine pouring a glass of such a special wine at an important occasion.
Now, when you pour it, the color is this beautiful brick-tinged deep garnet, showing its age. As you take a whiff, you'll notice the rich aroma of black cherries, with hints of damp earth and violets adding layers of complexity. Take a sip and the velvety tannins gently envelop your tongue, with the fruitiness melting seamlessly into the palate. The acidity is vibrant, giving structure to the overall balance.
The finish is long, leaving a lasting impression on your palate. You can really taste the complex and elegant character developed over 32 years of aging. It's best enjoyed slightly chilled at around 16°C and in a larger glass to truly appreciate its nuances.
総合 75 / 100