Winemaker and Vineyard: The Château Fleur Cardinale spreads its vines over nearly 23 hectares. The estate is located in the commune of Saint-Etienne-de-Lisse, east of the Saint-Emilion appellation. The topography is diverse: the hillsides predominantly have fairly steep slopes (often 10%), and all orientations are found locally. Château Fleur Cardinale is situated on a north-facing hillside on a clay-limestone plateau. The vineyard, with vines averaging 30 years of age, benefits from a grape variety dominated by Merlot (75%), followed by Cabernet Franc (17%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (8%).

Tasting: The 2015 Fleur Cardinale is a blend of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon matured in 100% new oak barrels for 13 months. Deep garnet-purple in color, it has a nose of fragrant violets, cedar chest and rose hips over a core of chocolate-covered cherries, plum preserves and blueberry pie. The medium to full-bodied palate is rich and plush with plenty of layers and great length. robertparker.com (02.21.2018)

Service: Serve at room temperature (16-18°C) to accompany duck confit.