
Château Clos Fourtet
Premier Grand Cru Classé Saint-Émilion estate with stunning underground cellars and exceptional Merlot-based wines.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal

Château Clos Fourtet
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Premier Grand Cru Classé Saint-Émilion estate with stunning underground cellars and exceptional Merlot-based wines.
"The basement in the tunnels is one of the most amazing experiences we had in Bordeaux."

Book Tours Ahead 📅
Essential for securing your spot, especially during peak season.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be walking through vineyards and cellars, so comfy footwear is a must.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Impressive Cellars
Underground Tunnels
Explore ancient underground tunnels carved into limestone, offering a unique and awe-inspiring wine storage experience.

Vineyard Views
Vineyard Slopes
Wander through the picturesque vineyards, soaking in the stunning views of the Saint-Émilion landscape.

Wine Tasting Experience
Tasting Room
Savor the exquisite wines of Clos Fourtet, including their highly-rated vintages, in a guided tasting session.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Understand the Terroir
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours Ahead 📅
Essential for securing your spot, especially during peak season.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be walking through vineyards and cellars, so comfy footwear is a must.
Ask About Vintages 🍇
Inquire about specific vintages; some are legendary!
Embrace the History 📜
The cellars have a rich history; learn about it during your tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours Ahead 📅
Essential for securing your spot, especially during peak season.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be walking through vineyards and cellars, so comfy footwear is a must.
Ask About Vintages 🍇
Inquire about specific vintages; some are legendary!
Embrace the History 📜
The cellars have a rich history; learn about it during your tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Château Clos Fourtet for its exceptional wines and the awe-inspiring experience of its ancient underground cellars. The hospitality is noted as wonderful, and the estate's history adds significant depth to the visit. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, one reviewer noted disappointment with a lack of response regarding an issue with a specific vintage.
"Amazing winery, excellent wines.
The basement in the tunnels is one of the most amazing experiences we had in Bordeaux.
The hospitality was wonderful"
leron axelrod
"#9 Wine of the top 100 Wines of 2015: Clos Fourtet, St.-Emilion 2012, 94 points, $72. (Wine Spectator)"
Mason
"Very cool winery! Grand Cru Saint-Emilion!!! Professionals with a capital letter. Gorgeous wines based on Merlot. The cellar is impressive. Gorgeous collection of vintages.
Robert Parker rated the wine of the 2009 harvest at 100 points (out of 100). Worthy of respect!!!
A must-see, definitely enjoy!!!"
Alexei Maliuta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Château Clos Fourtet is located in Saint-Émilion, about an hour's drive from Bordeaux. You can drive, take a train to Saint-Émilion station and then a taxi, or arrange a private transfer. Many visitors opt for organized wine tours from Bordeaux that include Clos Fourtet.
Yes, there is typically parking available for visitors at Château Clos Fourtet. It's advisable to check with the winery when booking your tour for specific details.
Absolutely! Château Clos Fourtet is a popular stop on many Saint-Émilion wine tours. This is a convenient way to visit multiple wineries and learn about the region.
If you plan to visit multiple wineries, consider hiring a local driver or using a taxi service. Some tours also offer transportation between estates. Walking is feasible if you're staying within the Saint-Émilion village.
Yes, you can take a regional train from Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion. From the station, it's a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk to the village and nearby châteaux.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tour and tasting at Château Clos Fourtet in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your preferred time slot.
Opening hours can vary, but tours are generally available during weekdays and sometimes on Saturdays. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Prices for tours and tastings vary depending on the package and the specific wines offered. Expect to pay a moderate fee, which often includes a tasting of several wines.
While walk-in visits might be possible if there's availability, it's strongly advised to book in advance to avoid disappointment. This ensures you can experience their guided tours and tastings.
A typical tour includes a walk through the vineyards, a visit to the impressive underground cellars, and a tasting of their wines, often accompanied by explanations of the winemaking process and history.
🎫 🍷 Wine & Tastings
Clos Fourtet has produced many exceptional vintages. The 2009 vintage received a perfect 100 points from Robert Parker. Other highly regarded vintages include 2015, 2016, and 2018. Older vintages like 1947 and 1964 are also celebrated.
Château Clos Fourtet wines are primarily made from Merlot, with smaller proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The 2019 vintage, for example, was composed of 90% Merlot.
Yes, you can typically purchase wines directly from the château after your tasting. It's a great opportunity to buy bottles that may be harder to find elsewhere.
Château Clos Fourtet produces rich, full-bodied, and elegant Saint-Émilion wines, known for their complexity, structure, and aging potential, largely due to the high percentage of Merlot.
Wineries like Clos Fourtet often offer various tasting experiences, from standard tastings to more in-depth sessions that might include older vintages or special cuvées. It's best to inquire about their current offerings when booking.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the cellars and vineyards, but it's always polite to ask your guide if there are any restrictions, especially in tasting rooms.
The underground cellars offer dramatic lighting and textures for unique shots. The vineyard landscapes, especially during golden hour, provide stunning panoramic views.
Drone usage is often restricted at wineries due to privacy and safety concerns. It's essential to check the château's policy and local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile camera with good low-light capabilities is ideal for the cellars. For vineyards, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive scenery.
Don't miss capturing the scale of the ancient cellars and the picturesque rows of vines. The château's architecture itself is also quite photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to check with the château beforehand about their policy on children attending tours and tastings. Some may offer specific family-friendly options or suggest focusing on the historical aspects of the estate. Bringing snacks and drinks for younger ones is always a good idea, as the focus is on wine.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the unique terroir and the dominance of Merlot in their blends. The guided tours offer deep insights into the winemaking process and the estate's history, enriching the appreciation of the wines. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic cellars, which are as impressive as the wines themselves.
📸 Photography Buffs
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the expansive vineyard views and a camera with good low-light performance for the cellars. The château's architecture and the details of the wine-making equipment also present interesting subjects. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the winery's operations when taking photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Clos Fourtet
Their vineyards are situated on a prime limestone plateau, a terroir renowned for producing wines with exceptional finesse and aging potential. This unique geological setting, combined with the family's dedication, results in wines that are both powerful and elegant, reflecting the very essence of Saint-Émilion.
The château's history is deeply intertwined with the region's winemaking heritage. Visitors often remark on the impressive cellars, which are carved directly into the limestone bedrock, offering a glimpse into centuries of wine storage and production. This historical aspect adds a profound layer to the tasting experience.
Exploring the Underground Cellars
As you walk through the labyrinthine passages, you'll learn about the history of winemaking at Clos Fourtet and how these cellars have been utilized for generations. The atmosphere is both mysterious and awe-inspiring, making it a highlight for many visitors. It’s a stark contrast to the sun-drenched vineyards above, offering a unique perspective on the wine's journey from grape to bottle.
Many visitors are struck by the impressive collection of vintages stored within these cellars. It’s a visual representation of the château's enduring legacy and commitment to producing wines that stand the test of time. The experience of standing amidst these aging treasures is truly unforgettable.
The Art of Saint-Émilion Winemaking
The winemaking philosophy at Clos Fourtet emphasizes sustainable practices and a deep respect for nature. This approach ensures the health of the vines and the purity of the fruit, allowing the unique characteristics of the terroir to shine through in every bottle. The result is wines that are not only delicious but also express a sense of place.
Visitors often praise the professionalism and passion of the team at Clos Fourtet. Their deep knowledge and willingness to share insights into the winemaking process enhance the overall experience. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, understanding the dedication behind each bottle adds significant value to the tasting.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit