Chateau Fleur Ursuline Cuvee Tradition, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, France

The 2018 Château Fleur Ursuline “Cuvée Tradition” is a right-bank Bordeaux that balances classical Saint-Émilion character with the estate’s organic, minimal‑intervention philosophy. It marries plush Merlot fruit with structure from Cabernet Franc in a moderately aged, terroir‑rooted style.

Product Details

• Grape Blend: Approximately 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc
• Appellation: Saint‑Émilion Grand Cru (Bordeaux, France)
• Viticulture: Certified organic, with natural/low‑intervention practices; manual vineyard work, careful selection, and minimal or no added sulfites
• Aging / Oak: A portion of the wine is aged in oak barrels (new and used), with the remainder aged in tank to maintain freshness and fruit purity
• Production / Vineyard Area: Produced from 6.34 hectares of vineyard land; approximately 6,000 bottles annually
• Soils & Exposure: Siliceous soils with gravel and iron-rich crystalline deposits; vineyards situated on terraces between Saint‑Émilion and Pomerol
• ABV: 13%

Sensory Description
The 2018 Cuvée Tradition opens with aromas of ripe black cherry, cassis, and plum, along with subtle earthy notes of damp leaf and forest floor. Hints of leather and tobacco emerge, while graphite and cedar evolve with aeration. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a silken texture. The Merlot brings plush fruit and roundness, while the Cabernet Franc lends structure, a hint of pepper, and lift. The tannins are polished, showing refined grip, and fresh acidity provides balance. The moderately long finish reveals mineral and savory nuances that deepen with time in the glass. Now in a phase of graceful evolution, the wine offers integrated structure with expressive fruit and emerging tertiary complexity.

Winemaker’s Background
Château Fleur Ursuline is managed by Karine and Matthieu Verhaeghe and is located on historic vineyard terraces between Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. The estate’s name honors its roots in a former convent, “Fleur des Ursulines.” Embracing organic farming and natural vinification methods, the family prioritizes gentle vineyard management, manual sorting, and minimal intervention in the cellar. Their commitment to sustainability and purity of expression sets Fleur Ursuline apart as a distinctive organic Grand Cru within Saint-Émilion.

Serving Suggestions
Serve at 62–65°F to best express the wine’s aromatic depth and soft tannins. Ideal with roasted lamb, duck breast, mushroom ragout, or aged cheeses such as Comté or well-aged goat varieties. It also complements game or rustic stews. While drinking beautifully now, this wine retains the potential to evolve further over the next 5–8 years, making it a compelling option for both immediate enjoyment and thoughtful cellaring.